Word Problem Analysis

From Mathematics 10 p. 313 # 12

Sharon creates a function in the form f(x) = __ x + __   for her classmates to solve.  To figure out the actual equation, students give Sharon input values.  She gives them the output from the function.  The values are f(1) = 5, f(2) = 8, f(-1) = -1, and f(-2) = -4.  What is the equation for Sharon's function?

Create a function of your own.  Have someone determine the equation of your function by giving you input values and studying the pattern in your responses.

1. Is it practical?

To me this question does not seem overly practical.  When in life are students going to have to create an equation that their peers will have to guess?

2. Is the imagery memorable?

Once again the question is not overly memorable.  The question is just another exercise for students to run through, only this time they get to run through it with a partner.  They will likely forget this very quickly.

3. Can it be solved with the given information?

Yes, the problem gives you enough information that it can be easily solved.

4. Can it be interpreted in more than one way?

I do not believe that this particular question can be interpreted in more than one way, though the responses to the second part will surely be different across the class.

5. Would students be able to interpret it as intended? 

I believe so, yes.  It is a very straight forward question.

6. Is there anything strange about it?

Beyond the fact that it has little connection to real life situations that students will find themselves in, there is not anything strange about it.

The question seems to me to be just another drill and kill kind of question that does not require a lot of creative thinking or true problem solving.  It is just a practice question disguised in a different costume.