Guadalupe Baltazar and Dr. Ivona Grzegorczyk
Abstract
This project is focused on teaching methodologies and the results of how students performed when taught exponential functions in different ways. For one class we started looking at different types of exponential functions graphs. Students were asked to compare the different types of exponential graphs. Then moved on to work with them algebraically, given an equation student where to graph it. In the other class we started out algebraically with the equations and inputting values to notice the pattern and create a table. Students then graphed them and compared the different types of exponential graphs. Compared both methodologies and their effectiveness on student learning based on data collected on students’ performance on various assessments. This research is very important as high school students have problems with these types of equations and perform below the expectations on standardized testing. Showing students different ways to visualize exponential equations, algebraically and graphically, can combat some difficulties students may have and help students grasp exponential equations.
Interesting and timely research topic. Good results from testing. Good job!
You should mention that this work was supported by NSF Noyce grant.