MATHEMATICS PROJECT ON MODELING ANIMAL POPULATIONS

Abstract

Objectives for Students

1. Understand how mathematical models can be used to represent a situation.
2. Be able to form a mathematical model of a life related situation.
3. Derive and interpret results from consideration of a mathematical model.
4. Explore strengths and weaknesses of a mathematical model.
5. Develop a set of procedures to be used in approaching modelling problems.
6. Develop a range of statistical concepts.
7. Use a range of problem solving skills.
8. Enhance the communication skills of mathematics results in a variety of forms.
9. Develop logical arguments expressed in everyday language, mathematical language and a combination of both to support conclusions.
10. Motivate students in the use of computer technology.
11. Development of multidisciplinary links between Mathematics, Geography, History and Science.

Objectives for Teachers

1. Assist in the incorporation of technology into mathematics curricula.
2. Assist in the transformation of mathematics curricula into a more contextual basis.
3. Development of links between teachers and schools.

Subject Matter

1. Concepts of function, domain, range and variables
2. Mappings, tables and graphs as representations of functions and relations
3. Graphs as a representation of the points whose coordinated satisfy an equation
4. Practical applications of linear, quadratic, logarithmic and exponential functions
5. Index and logarithmic laws and definitions
6. Definitions of a^x, log(a)x and e
7. Graphs of and the relationships between y=a^x, y=log(a)x
8. Simulation of the growth of a population and explanation of the effects of changes of constraints and parameters.
9. Population parameters and sample statistics including measures of central tendency and dispersion, their estimates and roles as descriptors of large data sets; the notion of expectation
10. Random sampling and bias; the role of sample size

http://kingfish.ssp.nmfs.gov/tmcintyr/turtles/greentur.html

http://kingfish.ssp.nmfs.gov/olo/unit24.html

http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/tmp/turtle.html