Math in the Work Place

Math in the Workplace - Careers & Math

Objective

Students will listen to, investigate, and present different careers and how math is used in those careers.

Lesson Part 1

Volunteers from a variety of fields visit the classroom to talk about how they use math. Suggest they do the following:

    1. Explain the different types of math that are used in their jobs.

    2. Model a variety of examples of how they use the math.

    3. List the kinds of math courses that would be helpful in pursuing their careers.

    Lesson Part 2

    1. Hand out the STUDENT ASSIGNMENT SHEET describing the project and have students spend some time thinking about the career they would like to write about. Do not let students use the same career, so they are exposed to a variety of fields. You may also want to hand out copies of the SCORING SHEET so they can see the value of each part of the assignment. These pages are also available in a download PDF for printing.

    2. Help students prepare their phone calls to set up the interviews.

      "Hi, my name is… "

      "I am calling from (school)… "

      "We are doing a project… "

      "I was wondering if I could interview you… "

    4. Brainstorm questions for their interview (have students come up with the questions but make sure they get specifics about the kinds of math and how it is used).

      "How long have you worked at this job?"

      "Do you enjoy the work you do"

      "What kind of training do you need?"

      "What kinds of math do you use?"

      "How do you use the math?"

    5. Students can bring rough drafts to class and have a peer read their paper and give feedback using the PEER RESPONSE: READING PAPER FORM. It is helpful for peers to point out mistakes so they have a chance to correct before turning the final project in to the teacher.

    6. After reports are due, students will then have the opportunity to present what they found to the class. Some may have a hard time talking in front of their peers but should be encouraged to give it a try. Having guests come in will give them a model to follow so they know what is expected. Allow note cards for information but I do not allow them to read from their paper. There should be time for seven students to present during a 48-minute class period.

    Closure: Students who have been listening to the presentations may be asked to write what they learned from the career presentations using the PEER RESPONSE: ORAL PRESENTATION FORM. This will encourage them to listen and maybe they will think about what they have learned.

    I have them respond to their own presentation as well, and some say that after doing the report, they do not think they are interested in the career anymore. Be creative with it and good luck!