PowerPoint Presentation Independent Inquiry Mr' Whitmore

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(I)

(Independent)(Inquiry)
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What is an Independent Inquiry?

• An I2 (Independent)(Inquiry) is an opportunity
  for students to explore a mathematical idea of
  their choice.

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Who Would Complete an I2?

• This opportunity to research and explore a
  mathematical idea is open to all students
  regardless of average or Extended status.
• Students on both the Smaldone and Civitarese
  teams may do an I2.

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Is an I2 for me?

• An Independent Inquiry is for you
• if you
• Are interested in a mathematical idea that we do
  not study in school
• Want to learn how a mathematical concept grows
  from 7th grade to become more complex
• Have heard of a mathematician or math topic and
  want to know more about it

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Is an I2 for me?

• Want to challenge and extend yourself and your
  mathematical knowledge
• Are interested in learning how mathematical ideas
  are woven into a favorite science topic

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What an I2 is Not

• An Independent Inquiry is not
• Part of the Extended Math Program
• Extra Credit
• An Alternative to Doing Your Required Homework

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How Does it Work?

• First, you choose a mathematical topic to
  research. It should be a topic that has great
  depth and that you will be able to research for
  at least a quarter.
• I can help you choose a topic if you have a
  general idea, but are not sure where to go from
  there.

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How Does it Work?

• Second, you begin to research your topic.
• Possible Resources Include
• Math Library (Rm. 122)
• High School, College, or Graduate School texts
• Mathematical Journals (Magazines)
• Interviews
• Internet
• I can also help you find resources.
• You explore this idea and all of its avenues -
  You really dig into it.

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How Does it Work?

• Third, you keep a learning log.
• This is where you write down your interesting
  observations, what resources you used, and any
  roadblocks you faced and how you got around them.
• This learning log will be brought to each meeting
  and may also be collected.

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How Does it Work?

• Fourth, you meet with me once every two weeks to
  check-in, discuss what you have learned, and to
  work through any roadblocks.
• During this meeting, we will discuss your
  progress. We will set up benchmarks (mini-goals)
  and plan how to accomplish them.

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How Does it Work?

• Finally, you find some way to present what you
  have learned. I am leaving these options open,
  but do have ideas if you are interested.

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What Role Does Ms. Irwin Play?

• If you are on the Civitarese Team,
• Ms. Irwin has offered to help you find resources
  that may be helpful to your I2.

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What Role Does Mr. Whitmore Play?

• Regardless of what team you are on, Mr. Whitmore
  is your advisor.
• I will assist you in finding helpful resources,
  as needed.
• I will help you move around any roadblocks you
  may face.
• I will meet with you once every two weeks to
  discuss your progress and set appropriate
  benchmarks.
• .???

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8th Graders - Student AdvisorsNeeded

• The current 8th graders have a role in our
  (Independent)(Inquiry) project as well.
• Eighth graders may be invited / may volunteer to
  begin their own I2 research.
• Eighth grade students may also work as Student
  Advisors to 7th graders working on an I2
  project.
• 8th graders will meet with 7th graders during
  Academic Support periods.

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Pioneers!

• Completing an Independent Inquiry has never been
  done before at MRMS. Because you will be putting
  forth so much additional effort that pushes you
  beyond your peers, you need to be recognized for
  you hard work and the amazing output of your
  efforts.

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I2 Recognition Ceremony

• A Recognition Ceremony will take place at the end
  of this year.
• Principal DeSantis would like to commend you for
  your hard work and dedication.
• Completed I2 work will be on display.

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I2 Recognition Ceremony

• Optional presentations by students so they may
  share their findings.
• In the works Mathematics professors from local
  colleges attend Recognition Ceremony to meet
  students and review completed research.

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• Questions?
• Comments?
• Interested?
• See Mr. Whitmore after presentation or as soon as
  possible. Feel free to think about it a while,
  too.