Title
Sports Writer (Ed Snyder)
Goals
(1) Students will begin to explore the concept of group ranking as it pertains to election theory.
(2) Students will work in small groups for the purpose of group ranking the league standings, and then be able to justify the ranking and the method used.
Abstract
This activity is designed for students to rank order the predicted standings of a football season. Students will be asked to arrive at a decision of group ranking based on a pre-season poll and come up with the predicted standings.
Problem Statement
Suggest to students that predicted finished in athletics is derived from mathematical reasoning and not only a sports writers opinion. This activity allows students to explore exactly what mathematical concepts are used to justify predicted results.
Instructor Suggestions
(1) Begin by discussing the problem statement.
(2) Have students form small groups.
(3) Distribute the Sports Writer activity sheet and have students work on the problem.
(4) Have each group select a spokesperson to report their findings to the class.
(5) Discuss students results as it relates to election theory.
Materials
"Sports Writer" activity sheet, chalk board, or overhead projector and transparencies.
Time
Introduction (5 min.), group work (25 min.), presentations of group work and class discussion (20 min.).
Mathematics Concepts
Discrete Mathematics Concepts
Group Ranking, Plurality winner, Borda Count, Runoff Method, Sequential Runoff Method, Condorcet Method.
Related Mathematics Concepts
Matrices, Sequences, Series, Probability
NCTM Standards Addressed
Problem Solving, Communications, Reasoning, Discrete Mathematics.
Colorado Model Content Standards Addressed
Number Sense (1), Data Collection and Analysis (3), Problem Solving Techniques (5), Linking Concepts and Procedures (6)
Curriculum Integration
This particular activity could be integrated into a Integrated (1) Mathematics course during a probability unit or a matrices unit.
Further Investigation
The assignment can be extended by having students do their own poll or survey, and then rank order the results.
Variations/Comments
References/Resources
Crisler, N., Fisher, P., & Froelich, G. (1994). Discrete mathematics through applications. New York: W. H. Freeman and Company.
Kenney, M.J., & Hirsch, C.R. (Eds.). (1991). Discrete mathematics across the curriculum, K-12. Reston. VA; National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.