Teacher Process
For step 1, make sure the students are using reputable sources for their definitions. In regards to their own definitions, make sure they aren’t just cutting and pasting what they already have. I made sure they were using their own opinions when creating their definitions.
As far as the real-life data, this is the one part of the project that will be the most frustrating part for your students, as they are taking an idea and looking for numbers that represent it. Have a few good examples of each type of function ready and attempt to guide the groups into finding the data online if they are having trouble. Do NOT find the data for them! Also be sure to promote creativity when finding numbers.
For step 2, make sure the groups draw a correct graph of their data and supervise the other 3 representations. I made sure that the group members were equally sharing in the work.
For step 3, I made sure to stress complete sentences for the 3 questions and I provided assistance with any of the presentation that I could. I made sure to remind students that a VCR, overhead projector, or Proxima would be available for them if they would need it.
The length of this project can vary, depending on how much time is available in the computer lab and how much time you have available to allow your students to work in class. I think that 3-4 days in the computer lab along with at least 1 day to come up with a presentation is sufficient, though more may be needed if necessary. At least one week is necessary to allow students to fully complete the WebQuest.