Unit 05 applied investigation

Radical Measurement & Inverse-Relationship Lab

How do radicals, rational exponents, inverse relationships, and domain restrictions describe quantities that grow by roots and powers?

1. Question and context

Frame a specific, ethical, measurable question that genuinely uses this unit’s mathematics. Identify stakeholders, desired outcome, and what would count as useful evidence.

2. Variables and assumptions

Define all quantities, units, domain, data source, constraints, and assumptions. Explain why the selected mathematical structure fits.

3. Build and compute

Create at least two representations, show exact and approximate work, use technology strategically, and preserve enough detail for reproduction.

4. Validate and revise

Check with substitution, residuals, alternate methods, or cases. Analyze sensitivity, uncertainty, fairness, and model limitations.

5. Communicate

Present claim, evidence, reasoning, visualizations, limitations, and a conclusion that distinguishes mathematical result from recommendation.

6. Defense and reflection

Answer critique, revise transparently, and explain what the model can and cannot support.

100-point analytic rubric

CriterionPointsEvidence
Question, context, ethics15Specific and answerable; stakeholders and constraints identified.
Mathematical structure25Correct Algebra II methods, representations, and domain.
Computation and technology15Transparent, reproducible, verified work.
Validation and uncertainty20Checks, residuals or cases, sensitivity, limitations.
Communication and defense15Clear claim-evidence-reasoning and response to critique.
Revision and reflection10Meaningful improvement and honest reflection.