IB MYP Maths Investigation Task Transforming Trigonometric Functions

Real-Life Math Investigation: Modeling Tides with Sinusoidal Functions (MYP Years 4-5)

Product Description:
Engage your IB MYP Mathematics students with this comprehensive investigation that explores the fascinating world of sinusoidal functions through real-life scenarios like tidal movements in a harbor. This ready-to-use task is designed for students in Years 4-5, helping them deepen their understanding of mathematical modeling, trigonometric functions, and real-world applications.

What’s Included:

Student Task Sheet: A well-structured investigation that guides students step by step through modeling tides using sinusoidal functions. The scenario is designed to be relatable and practical.

Detailed Answer Key: Complete solutions with clear explanations for all tasks, ensuring teachers can quickly assess student work or guide students through the process.

Graphing Instructions: Step-by-step guide on how to plot sinusoidal graphs related to the task, making it easy for students to visualize their solutions.

Extension Task: A challenging bonus activity that pushes students to extend their thinking and apply their knowledge in a more complex scenario, encouraging critical thinking and deeper mathematical exploration.

Criterion A, C, D Descriptors: Pre-written task-specific descriptors for IB MYP Criteria A (Knowing and Understanding), C (Communicating), and D (Applying Mathematics in Real-Life Contexts), making it easy for teachers to assess student performance using IB guidelines.

Key Concepts and IB Framework:

Key Concept: Relationships – Explore how mathematical relationships (such as those between time and tidal height) can model real-world phenomena.

Related Concepts: Models, Approximation – Use mathematical models to approximate periodic real-life changes.

Global Context: Scientific and Technical Innovation – Investigate how mathematical modeling supports scientific understanding of natural cycles.

Statement of Inquiry: “How can mathematical models using sinusoidal functions help predict and understand periodic changes, such as tidal movements?”