What Does It Mean?

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Overview

Students will use a graph created by using color theory and conflict resolution to solve a scheduling problem. They will provide an explanation for their reasoning.

Phase

After/Explain/Elaborate
Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 09-12 - Applications of Finite Mathematics

MA19.FM.19

Use vertex-coloring, edge-coloring, and matching techniques to solve application-based problems involving conflict.

UP:MA19.FM.19

Vocabulary

  • Vertex coloring
  • Matching techniques
  • Conflict graphs
  • Adjacent edges
  • Adjacent vertices
  • Odd wheel graph
  • Proper coloring

Knowledge

Students know:

  • Graphing procedures and properties.

Skills

Students are able to:

  • Model application-based problems that may be solved using graph colorings.
  • Color the edges or vertices of a graph using the least number of colors so that no two adjacent vertices or edges are colored the same.
  • Interpret the coloring of the graph in terms of a solution for an application-based problem, such as scheduling committee meetings (vertex colorings) or class scheduling (edge-colorings).
  • Identify structures in a graph that require a minimum number of colors for a proper coloring.

Understanding

Students understand that:

  • -Techniques are used to minimize colors needed to color the vertices (edges) of a graph so that no two adjacent vertices (edges) are colored the same. -Real-world problems such as scheduling and conflict can be modeled with graphs and solved using the minimization of the number of colors.

Body

  1. Use vertex-coloring, edge-coloring, and matching techniques to solve application-based problems involving conflict.
    Examples: Use graph-coloring techniques to color a map of the western states of the United States so that no adjacent states are the same color, determining the minimum number of colors needed and why no fewer colors may be used; use vertex colorings to determine the minimum number of zoo enclosures needed to house ten animals given their cohabitation constraints; use vertex colorings to develop a time table for scenarios such as scheduling club meetings or for housing hazardous chemicals that cannot all be safely stored together in warehouses.

Learning Objectives

The students will decipher a graph that has been created using color theory and conflict resolution to solve a problem. 

The students will determine who should be in the same room on a school trip and how many rooms are needed. 

The students will explain their reasoning and thinking.  

Activity Details

  1. Direct each student to the Google Document "What Does It Mean?"
  2. Instruct the students to read the problem, examine the graph, and answer the prompts provided in the activity. 
  3. Circulate while students are working and assist with any questions or problems they might encounter.
  4. Teachers will use their responses to address any misconceptions.

Assessment Strategies

Teachers can collect student responses and use them to address any misconceptions.

Students could also share their thinking with a partner and they can critique each other's thinking.

Variation Tips

This activity is designed to be an exit ticket to provide insight into student understanding. If devices are not available, the activity could be printed and distributed to the class.

If there are not enough devices for students to have their own, students can work in pairs or small groups to complete the activity.

Background / Preparation

The teacher will need to ensure the classroom has the following:

    • internet connection (WiFi).
      • classroom set of computers, iPads, or smart devices. (If allowed students can use their own personal devices.)

    Prior to the lesson, the teacher will need to share the document What Does It Mean? with students.

    The teacher should work through the problems and be familiar with possible student responses. 

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