Endangered Elements - Open-ended Version

This is an integrated math and science modeling activity that explores Endangered Elements. This modeling activity contains the more open-ended versions the activity. Students are introduced to elements that are used in the smartphones they use every day. This addresses NGSS High School disciplinary core ideas ESS3 Earth an Human Activity. ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems The sustainability of human societies and the biodiversity that supports them requires responsible management of natural resources. (HS-ESS3-3) Scientists and engineers can make major contributions by developing technologies that produce less pollution and waste and that preclude ecosystem degradation. (HS-ESS3-4) Performance Expectations HS-ESS3-2. Evaluate competing design solutions for developing, managing, and utilizing energy and mineral resources based on cost-benefit ratios HS-ESS3-3. Create a computational simulation to illustrate the relationships among the management of natural resources, the sustainability of human populations, and biodiversity. HS-ESS3-4. Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems. Students will use mathematical models and relationships to understand how the supply and production of certain elements has changed over time. Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) that can be addressed through this activity. Standards: HSN-Q.A.1 Use units as a way to understand problems and to guide the solution of multi-step problems; choose and interpret units consistently in formulas; choose and interpret the scale and the origin in graphs and data displays. HSN-Q.A.2 Define appropriate quantities for the purpose of descriptive modeling. HSN-Q.A.3 Choose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities. HSA.CED.A.2 Create equations in two or more variables to represent relationships between quantities; graph equations on coordinate axes with labels and scales. HSF.BF.A.1 Write a function that describes a relationship between two quantities. HSF.LE.A.1 Distinguish between situations that can be modeled with linear functions and with exponential functions. Mathematical Practices: MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. MP.4 Model with mathematics. MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically This activity can also address the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns This modeling activity was created by Amanda Provost and Amy Daniel, doctoral students at Montclair State University. This activity was created for a class on Modeling for STEM Integration. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments regarding this activity. Amanda Provost: provosta1@montclair.edu Amy Daniel: daniela4@montclair.edu If you would like to provide feedback on the task you may fill out this Google Form or email us directly. Additionally, if you are interested in participating in research or professional development opportunities you may fill out the form or email us directly.

By Amanda Provost