Learning Outcome
Students will works on simplifying, and evaluating algebraic expressions with variables
Treasure Hunt
Lesson Plan Description
Learning Objectives
Students will practice simplifying algebraic expressions using combining like terms and the distributive property.
Students will evaluate algebraic expressions for specific variable values.
Students will apply algebra skills in a real-world context through problem-solving and critical thinking.
The experience will be introduced as a global treasure hunt. Students are told that a mysterious mathematician has hidden a treasure around the world, and the only way to unlock it is to travel (virtually) to famous landmarks using Google Earth. At each stop, students will solve algebra challenges that give them clues to the next location. Their success depends on their ability to simplify and evaluate expressions correctly.
Students open the Google Earth project
They begin at the Great Pyramid of Giza and read the storyline in the placemark description.
They solve the given algebra expression, record their work on the student worksheet, and use the numerical answer as the clue to move forward.
They continue through the treasure hunt at Big Ben, Taj Mahal, Sydney Opera House, and Machu Picchu.
At each stop, they complete the corresponding worksheet section by showing their simplified expression and evaluated solution.
At the final stop, they discover the treasure code and celebrate finishing the quest.
Students will use Google Earth to:
Navigate globally between landmarks.
Read the embedded clues and math challenges at each placemark.
Visualize cultural and geographical context of each site, making the math journey more engaging and immersive.
Students are expected to:
Correctly simplify and evaluate five algebraic expressions.
Record their answers and reasoning on the worksheet.
Use their solutions to unlock the sequence of locations and the final treasure code.
To help students succeed, I will:
Review the process for simplifying expressions
Provide worked examples
Give a guided practice problem before the hunt begins so students know what to expect
Supply the student worksheet for the activity
Students may work individually or in small groups
Groups allow for peer teaching and discussion
Groups can be self-chosen
ChatGPT helped me create the Google Earth file, the layout for the student worksheet, and an understanding for why this project would be effective.
Non- Academic Skills
Collaboration- In order to work together in groups to complete the project
Technological understanding- In order to be able to use the computer and Google Earth
Critical Thinking- To problem solve and get to the end of the treasure hunt
Time Management- In order to complete the assignment in one class period