Mathematical Modeling is a cyclical process where students engage in (1) making sense of the situation and posing a modeling problem (2) listing quantities and assumptions; (3) representing, exploring and creating a solution/model (4) interpreting and revising the model and (5) reporting out.
Mathematical modeling (MM) is an equity and empathy lever in K-12 mathematics as it helps students make sense of real-world situations through problem-posing and decision-making.
This cycle can be posted in the classroom and referenced when students are engaged in the modeling process. It is cyclical and students will naturally go back to different phases as they refine their model.
We can develop students’ mathematical modeling competencies through routines and modeling tasks and use these look fors.
For each phase of the modeling cycle, the MM Lesson Analysis Tool offers teachers some skills to develop and look for.