Math Problem Solving
Strategy: Basketball Math
Appropriate Grade Level: Fifth grade and up
Procedures/Steps:
This is a writing strategy designed to encourage high school students to think about connections between math, math words and the relationship of math to the outside world.
1.
Divide the class into groups of equal numbers of students.
2.
Each student takes ten of each shot: free throws, two pointers, three pointers.
3.
Students track results on a student scoring chart, tracking shots made, shots missed and percentage made of each shot.
4.
Return to the classroom and compile total statistics by group.
5.
Compare and analyze statistics individually and by group to determine which shot would be the best to take, and in what situation.
Comments and/or tips:

Before the activity discuss historical or current basketball player statistics.

Before the activity go over how to figure percentages.

Have charts ready, or make them up as a class before-hand.
Source:
Watters, D.M. (2000). Basketball Math. Teaching Children Mathematics, 6 , 556-559.