Should I Open it, or Should I Keep it Sealed?

Progressive teaching focuses on active learning experiences that make education engaging and meaningful. This Tuesday in our eighth-grade math class, the concept of calculating the rate of change was brought to life with Pokémon cards. 

Here's how it worked:

• Students received Pokémon booster packs containing 10 cards each.
• Using the "Pokedata.io" website, they researched the value of their cards.
• Then they calculated the percentage gained or lost based on the cost of the booster pack, considering whether they should have kept it sealed or opened it for profit.

This hands-on approach taught students about real-world applications of calculating the rate of change and percentage, demonstrating its relevance to their own interests and experiences. The lesson also incorporated important life lessons about the risks and potential financial losses associated with gambling.

The innovative teaching method not only made math more enjoyable but also empowered students to take ownership of their learning and develop critical thinking skills. Stop by the middle school math room to see the final results of this creative project and witness the power of progressive education in action!

Spoiler alert: rumor has it the current most valuable card we have is $5… I guess we should have kept those packs sealed.