© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI: Algebra
Quick Start Guide
Unit Topic World Region Quick Print Page #s
1
Variables & Expressions Australia p. 4-10 (Mapped to Glencoe Ch 1) Order of Operations, Translating Verbal and Algebraic Expressions, Open Sentences, Distributing, Combining Like Terms
2 Real Numbers Latin America p. 11-17
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 2) Square root approximation, Decimal-fraction-percent conversion, Scientific Notation, The Real Number System, Perfect Squares
3 Solving Equations Middle East p. 18-24
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 3) Translating Verbal & Algebraic Equations, Solving different equation types, Using Formulas
4 Relations & Functions Europe p. 25-32
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 4) Coordinate Planes, Domain & Range, Inverses, Patterns & Arithmetic Sequences
5 Lines China p. 33-39
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 5) Slope & Rates of Change, Calculating, graphing and interpreting lines, Parallel and Perpendicular lines
6 Inequalities & Absolute Value Scandinavia p. 40-46 (Mapped to Glencoe Ch 6) Solving & Graphing Inequalities, Compound Inequalities, Solving Absolute Value Equations
7 Systems of Equations Africa p. 47-53
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 7) Solving Systems with Elimination, Substitution and Graphing, Graphing Systems of Inequalities
8 Polynomials Japan p. 54-60
(Mapped to Glencoe Ch 8) Operations on Monomials, Operations with Polynomials, Scientific Notation
9 Factoring & Quadratics United States p. 61-67
(Mapped to elements Glencoe Ch 9 & 10) Factoring (GCF, Distributive Property, trinomials), Quadratic Formula, Graphing and interpreting parabolic graphs
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Variables & Expressions Detectives,
As you know we are after a group of international evil geniuses, the Mathemagicians. Our evidence indicates they have plans to build a world conquering device – to conquer the world. It seems that one of the anonymous henchmen, Otto Pemdas, has committed a string of robberies all over Australia. We fear this is another step in the Mathemagician’s attempt to build a world conquering device.
Fortunately, the Mathemagicians are arrogant about their work and have a reputation for leaving behind a trail of notes and a cryptic text message. The text message when substituted correctly will calculate to the Otto’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Otto Pemdas to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Otto is known to use in the notes.
- Order of Operations
- Translating Verbal and Algebraic Expressions
- Open Sentences
- Distribution
- Combining Like Terms
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Otto Pemdas?
Name: Bianca
Occupation: Baker
Favorite Number: 3
Name: Randal
Occupation: Dentist
Favorite Number: -8
Name: Donnie
Occupation: Factory Supervisor
Favorite Number: 62
Name: Sue
Occupation: Corrections Officer
Favorite Number: 44
Name: Alex
Occupation: Politician
Favorite Number: 98
Name: Stu
Occupation: Chef
Favorite Number: 24
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Sydney Opera House -- New South Wales
Last night, Otto Pemdas broke into the Opera House and stole three parabolic shell ribs from the unique roof. Since he moves at ninja-like speed, the security cameras missed everything, but he left this note.
G’Day Police Officers of Australia,
To let you know upfront, the Mathemagicians plan on conquering the world. Okay, now that I have your attention, I figure I’ll give you a fighting chance to stop us. MuHahahahahaha.
x = # of sides on a triangle y = # of femurs an average man has z = # of syllables in integration
E = ________ Scene #2 The Dingo Steakhouse –- Western Australia
At a five-star restaurant just outside of Perth, a waitress stumbled upon this note on the back of the receipt. It was later discovered that the restaurant’s signature sauce was missing.
To celebrate our thefts, I took the whole Pemdas family out for a native three-course meal.
In all there was one family-sized BBQ Shrimp that cost $40, 5 grilled kangaroo legs that cost $18.50 each, 2 alligator burgers that cost $24 a piece, 7 drinks that cost $2.50 each, and 7 quadruple chocolate pavlova at $11.49 a pop. For their wonderful service, I’ve tipped the waiter $0.57 AUD!
I paid with a recently stolen $300 AUD. How much change did I get? This answer will be equal to $.
Start Here 𝑊 = 2𝑥 − 𝑦𝑧
𝐴 = 4𝑥𝑧+ 𝑤𝑥
E = a +(b + w) – x + (y – z)
B = (x2+z2) – a + w - yz
$ = _____
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Great Barrier Reef -- Queensland
A cruise ship captain was stunned to find the following note plastered to the inside of his personal bathroom. A few guests believed they saw a stealth helicopter drop in during the middle of the night.
G’Dafternoon Mate! When everyone was asleep, I stole a dolphin right out of the reef. It was pretty easy too. Just for kicks, this might help you find me.
Find the solution set of each of the five problems using the replacement set:
Flipper = {-40, -13.5, -5, 0, ½ , 5, 300}
1.) x = 32 – 72 2.) x2 = 30 – 5 3.) x < -10
4.) x =
(9 − 2 )(6 − 4)
5.) 10 – x < 7 Take a good long look at the
solution sets… there’s an unused object in the set Flipper. F is this number.
F = ______
Scene #4 Aboriginal Museum in the Outback –- South Australia
The curator of an Aboriginal Museum was stunned to find one of the most-prized hollowed log coffins was stolen. The log coffin, of a noted Aboriginal poet, supposedly has mystical powers.
The Outback sure is beautiful in the spring. Aboriginal villages, marvelous rock painting, cacti, and stealing more stuff. Here’s a little map puzzle of my journey. Oh, g = -1 miles and h = 4 miles.
If you find the total distance of the path, you’ll find its magic number.
$ = 51 miles ɸ = 53 miles
E = 55 miles @ = 57 miles
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 Melbourne Cricket Ground -- Victoria
After the Aussie Rules Football match between rivals the Demons and Eagles, a security officer discovered the world’s oldest football was stolen from the museum. While it’s unsure how Otto plans to use it, the football was made out of an inflated pig bladder. Later he found this note.
FUMBLE. You shoulda been watching your ball. The coach has drawn up a complicated play. I’m not even sure he knows what it is.
MYSTERY EXPRESSION GAME!!!!!
i. Twice x Answer I:
ii. 9 less than the Answer I Answer II:
iii. The sum of Answer II and the product of 5 and t Answer III:
iv. Answer III decreased by two-fifths the cube of another number
Answer IV:
v. Half of Answer IV
Answer V:
ANSWER V is…
E (9 − 2𝑥 + 5𝑡) − 25 𝑛2
ɸ (2𝑥 − 9 − 5𝑡) − 25 𝑛
2
$ (9 − 2𝑥 + 5𝑡) + 25 𝑛2
@ (2𝑥 − 9 + 5𝑡) − 25 𝑛
2
The correct answer = -2 ______ = -2
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Television Studio –- New South Wales
After a Bindi Irwin television taping, this note was found outside the studio. Otto is suspected of stealing a number of Bindi Irwin DVDs. It’s unclear whether the DVDs are related to the world conquering device or if Otto is just a big Bindi Irwin fan.
G’Daft…night. I guess you aren’t hot on my trail as it seems I can enjoy a really great television taping of “The Bindi Show” without worry. I had some extra time for this puzzle. I’m sure you won’t figure it out. What is V?
V = 36a (a – c) – 24c(2a – 3c) + 2a( -2( 3a +c)) v = ___
So you were actually able to distribute and combine like terms. Whoopdidoo. Too bad that doesn’t tell you
the value of V. Here’s the values for a and c -- I even did it for you. UNLESS I’M LYING.
4 + 3 = 3 + 4 = 7 is an example of the associative property
3 + (1+5) = (3+1) +5 = 9 is an example of the commutative property
So a = 7 and c = 9
HAHAHAHAHA see I just gave you to values! Or did I? MUHAHAHAHA. Better figure it out quick
before you plug them in to find V. I’d surely hate if you did it wrong.
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
lol c if u can solve this. u need sum variables.
($ + ɸ + V) + FE$ - @$
L8r, Otto Pemdas
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Real Numbers
Detectives,
A thief, working under the alias Guapo Arcsin, has caused a ruckus all throughout Central America. It is believed that Guapo is a member of the evil genius group, the Mathemagicians. From what the detectives have gathered thus far from the previous thefts, the Mathemagicians are building a world conquering device.
Fortunately, Guapo has left behind a trail of notes and a cryptic text message that he has told us will calculate toward his favorite number. Thus far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Guapo to justice and save the planet. Since you are being brought in as a specialist you have to have definitive proof in order for any arrest to hold up in court.
You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Guapo is known to use in her/his notes.
- Square root approximation
- Decimal, fraction, percent, conversion
- Scientific Notation
- The Real Number System
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict.
Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Guapo Arcsin?
Name: Stillman
Occupation: College Student
Favorite Number: -7
Name: Charmelle
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer
Favorite Number:
Name: Hiram
Occupation: Doctor
Favorite Number: 6
Name: Logan
Occupation: Politician
Favorite Number : 13
Name: Pedro
Occupation: Fire Fighter
Favorite Number: ½
Name: Eden
Occupation: Organic Food Grower
Favorite Number: 0
S
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Machu Picchu - Peru
At about 12:24, Guapo Arcsin broke into the famous Incan ruins and stole an Intihuatana stone. The Intihuatana is a ritual South American stone used to tell time.
Hello Peru Peeps and Police,
To let you know upfront, I plan on conquering the world. Okay, now that I have your attention, I figure I’ll give you a fighting chance to stop me. MuHahahahahaha. If found this riddle carved into an Incan temple.
Figure out a number that fits all three of these criteria.
1. A is a WHOLE NUMBER
2. A is a two digit perfect square
3. A > |-7| +
Please be aware I will later send you a CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE.
Sincerely Yours, A=_______
Guapo Arcsin
Scene #2 Mayan Ruins -- Mexico
Four rare, limestone cornerstones were extracted from the ruins of a Mayan ceremonial platform. These stones could perhaps lay the foundation for a devastating world conquering device.
My Dearest,
Since I haven’t been captured yet, I’ve been thinking about running for Congress! I’ll make the next one an easy one. I have run three different opinion polls.
Which one is the best?
G. 11 out of every 20 voters is expected to vote for me!
ñ. The percentage of voters that are expected to vote for me is 54%!
P. There are 240,000 expected to vote, and of these, 130,000 are expected to vote for me!
This letter = -6 ______=-6
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Andes Mountains -- Colombia Thursday night, Guapo Arcsin traversed the mountains and shaved two dozen alpacas. While it’s unclear what he plans to do with the wool, there are now many cold and confused alpacas. He carved this note into the mountain.
Greetings Police Officer,
I see that my first puzzle has befuddled even the best of you. I’ve made the next one even harder. Remember my World Conquering Device will go off at the touch of a calculator.
Q=_______
Give up yet? Your Friend,
Guapo Arcsin
Scene #4 Panama Canal -- Panama
An oiler tanker ship was reported missing from the canal. Apparently the captain decided to go ashore to eat a sandwich and was shocked to find this note in place of his boat.
To Whom It May Concern,
I’m sure you are thoroughly confused by now. Hopefully you don’t arrest the wrong person!
1. A = the denominator of 125/1000 when it is written in lowest terms.
2. B = the number of minutes in a day divided by 360.
3. √𝐴𝐵
4. Mystery Letter = Approximation of √𝐴𝐵 on the number line.
Mystery Letter = 32 ______= 32
1.) Q is a RATIONAL NUMBER
2.) 𝑥 = (2.4 × 10 ) + (1.8 × 10 )
(1.4 × 10 )
3.) 60𝑥
= 𝑄
4 5 6 7 A G Q W ñ Y B
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 St. Cecilia Acatitlan -- Mexico
An unknown amount of rubble and multiple Aztec jade masks depicting various gods were stolen. Guapo has successfully robbed the Aztec, Incans, and Mayans. It’s unknown what he’s capable of…he must be stopped quick.
What’s Good,
I’m getting bored. I decided to make some of my own wall art. Which point most accurately represents √168 ?
Which point most accurately represents (𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟_𝑜𝑓_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑙𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟_𝑖𝑛_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑎𝑙𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑏𝑒𝑡)? Use your previous answer. (HINT: C=3, A=1, L=12 etc.)
Which point most accurately represents |(𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟_𝑜𝑓_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑙𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟_𝑖𝑛_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑎𝑙𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑏𝑒𝑡) − 6|?
Which point most accurately represents (𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟_𝑜𝑓_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑙𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟_𝑖𝑛_𝑡ℎ𝑒_𝑎𝑙𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑏𝑒𝑡) − 5 ?
Round your last answer to the nearest integer and you might have figured out me out.
Final Letter = Rounded Answer ____ =____
We will be deploying our device soon. Good luck.
Happy Holidays,
Guapo Arcsin
10 11 12 13
A C C L L U U S
3 4 5 6 A M T H
-1 0 1 2 A A T C U Q D R I
-3 -2 -1 0 S G P ñ
Q W
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Museo Nacional de Antropologia – Mexico City
Three rare, blind Egyptian six legged mice were stolen from the National Museum of Anthropology. We suspect Guapo Arcsin will be using their abnormal DNA as part of his World Conquering Device.
Hola,
Como estas? Muy bien gracias. I’m liking this Spanishness! I want to play some futbol!
Elegir la respuesta con los números en orden de menor a mayor.
½
½
½
ñ = El numéro de letras en la palabra es la respuesta.
Adios Amigos,
Señor Guapo Arcsin
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
omg u arent gonna figure this out my num is perfect
(ñ-Qñ)^(G/P) - (SQRT(A-W)) - 3Qñ
rofl Guapo Too Slick Arcsin
ñ =____
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Solving Equations
Detectives,
Once again the world has been rocked by a string of high profile robberies. This time it seems the Middle East has been victim of the evil genius group, the Mathemagicians. Notes signed “Kareem Al-Jabr” have been discovered at each of the robbery sites. Once again a cryptic text message was sent, but requires the puzzles to be cracked. We believe the Mathemagicians have been successfully piecing together a world conquering device.
Again we’ve been told the result of the cryptic text message will calculate to Al-Jabr’s favorite number. Thus far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Al-Jabr to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Al-Jabr is known to use in the notes.
- Translating equations
- Solving equations
- Using Formulas
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict.
Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Kareem Al-Jabr?
Name: Bao
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Favorite Number: -20
Name: Trish
Occupation: Lawyer
Favorite Number: 0
Name: Chloe
Occupation: High School Teacher
Favorite Number: 97
Name: Eugene
Occupation: Musician
Favorite Number: ¼
Name: Darryl
Occupation: Optometrist
Favorite Number: 9
Name: Carlo
Occupation: Grocer
Favorite Number: -210
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Egyptian Museum -- Cairo
In the middle of the night, Kareem Al-Jabr softly repelled into the heavily alarmed security system. Al-Jabr most definitely has soft feet and great swag. He left with hundreds of coins from the ancient world.
These coins look really really old. I’ll be sellin these on eBay check out my listings @WorldlySwagg14. I’m about to knock over the home of Algebra! Come enjoy the ride with me?
g=______
Scene #2 National Museum of Iraq – Baghdad, Iraq
A baked clay tablet with Hammaurabi’s Code was found astray this morning. It appears Kareem Al-Jabr was attempting to translate the document.
While my Akkadian is a little rusty, my swagg tells me rule 204 says,
“what you do to one side you better do to the other side. Otherwise your hand will be cut off.”
i. 3k – 5 = 7k – 33 ii. 28 – 2.2x = 11.6x – 54.8 iii. 8f + 12 = 7f + 9
iv. k+Vf = x + V
V =____
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Ancient Babylon -- Iraq
Etched into the grounds of Babylon, Kareem Al-Jabr left the this note. It’s suspected he used Babylonian numerals.
I was going to etch this a few spots over, but it seems the US military built a helipad in Babylon. Good thing it’s not an ancient civilization that should be cherished forever. Well at least they didn’t crush the ground with their tanks. Oh wait, are those tank tracks?
See if you can solve this puzzle from the ruins.
=____
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #4 The Great Pyramids –- Giza, Egypt Kareem Al-Jabr snuck past Pyramid Security at an unspecified time. While we are unsure what he stole, we are in the process of taking inventory of all the mummies.
Hmmm…so sure the algebra stuff isn’t that hard, let see if you can handle some swagg-rific geometry.
The volume of the pyramid is 18,069,333.33333 cubits3
How tall is it? I’ll be a nice person. Here’s the formula for the volume of a pyramid: V = (1/3)lwh
(Round your answer to the nearest whole number)
h=_______
Scene #5 Sphinx –- Giza, Egypt
We suspect after his robbery at the pyramid, Al-Jabr went outside, ate a picnic lunch, and climbed the Sphinx. Our research team suspects, Al-Jabr stole a limestone fragment of the Sphinx’s beard.
I so stole a piece of that dude’s beard. Check this out, here’s some good ol’ Egyptian math right off the Rhind Papyrus! I stole that too!
p=_______
Problem 44.
The sum of A certain quantity “p” together with its two-third, And its half becomes 234.
What is the quantity “p”?
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Nile River Cruise –- Alexandria, Egypt
After the pair of robberies at Giza, Al-Jabr hopped on a Nile River cruise. He stole a dangerous amount of shampoo.
Livin it up on the Nile. Gotta go get my swaggilicious self on the dance floor. Check out these two receipts – I had to pay with Egyptian Pounds after my Swaggcard got denied.
What a coincidence? Both receipts totaled to the same amount… X. I really wish I knew how much a Du’aah cost. They were yummy.
œ = ______
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
check dis out. You dont got no chance.
(h – p) y (9g + ) + œ – (pv)^g
Kareem Master of Swagg Al-Jabr
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Relations, Functions & Patterns
Detectives,
The evil genius group, the Mathemagicians, have taken a European vacation. Indications are that they are behind a number of robberies across the continent and they are making progress in the construction of a world conquering device. Notes have been found at each site and have been signed “The Diophantus of the Opera”. Through our intelligence we’ve determined this individual is a high ranking member of the group.
Once again we have received a cryptic text message and we’ve been told the result will calculate to the Diophantus’s favorite number. Thus far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense and spatial reasoning skills can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring the Diophantus of the Opera to justice and save the planet. Since you are being brought in as a specialist you have to have definitive proof in order for any arrest to hold up in court. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that the Diophantus is known to use in the notes.
- Coordinate Planes
- Domain & Range
- Patterns & Arithmetic Sequences
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is the Diophantus of the Opera?
Name: Hailey
Occupation: Panini Maker
Favorite Number : 99
Name: Vernon
Occupation: Network Administrator
Favorite Number : -10
Name: Jeff
Occupation: Blogger
Favorite Number: π
Name: Owen
Occupation: Graphic Designer
Favorite Number : 1
Name: Jessica
Occupation: Musician
Favorite Number: φ
Name: Rishi
Occupation: App Developer
Favorite Number: 19
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Descartes Home -- Ville de Descartes, France
Yesterday the Diophantus of the Opera broke into the childhood home of esteemed geometer, René Descartes. The owners woke up to find the lucky straightedge of Descartes was missing.
René Descartes worked awfully hard creating his Cartesian Coordinate System, but it strikes me as a little too trivial for our grand premiere. The Diophantus of the Opera is here… inside your mind, but how about later?
Here are the directions to my odyssey. The name of the final destination will be equal to -8
1. From my starting point (the star), I’m going 5o N and 7o E. I am in _______________
2. Then 8o S. I am in ________________________
3. Then I’m gracefully traveling 5o S and 10o E. I am in _______________
4. Finally, 14o N and 24o W to my final destination _____________
______= -8
47oN 5oE
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #2 Eiffel Tower –- Paris, France
It is suspected that the Diophantus of the Opera broke into the Eiffel Tower, climbed to the top and proceeded to drop euro coins. A figure was seen taking measurements and investigators later found this note.
Although most of the great French mathematicians were not around to see it, I’m sure they would have loved to have thrown coins from atop the Eiffel Tower. The distance the coin will fall is 4.9 meters the first second, 14.7 meters the next second and so on in an arithmetic sequence. If the coin continues to fall at this rate, how many meters will it fall during the 8th second?
You might like this equation... an = a1 + (n – 1)d e=_______ Scene #3 Remains of the Berlin Wall, Germany
It is believe that after his raid in France, the Diophantus hitchhiked to Germany. Our researchers seems chunks of the mortar from the remains of the Berlin Wall was chiseled away and stolen.
Brava, Brava, Bravissima. I seem to have reached the Point of No Return. Is this yours?
f(x) = 3x - 2 g(x) = x2 – 4 q(x) = PHANTOMx
P = f(2) + 4 H= 2[g(3)] A= f(0) + 5 N= g(-2) + 3
T= 5[f(4)] – 49 O= -3[g(1) + 9] M= f(1) + g(1)
q(x) = 6480? X=_______
t (seconds) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
meters fallen during that second 4.9 14.7 24.5 e
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #4 Aristotle University of Thessaloniki -- Greece
A Greek manuscript filled with philosophical writings was found on a table next to a dozen empty cans of Mountain Dew. Investigators believe the Diophantus was attempting to translate the document.
My sweet Christine, tis best if we can improve our relations. Remember that relations may take many different forms and look different ways -- masks of a sort. Unfortunately only one of our famous Greek friends could translate their relation correctly every time. Who’s right?
R = {(1, 4), (-2, 5), (5, 5), (2, 3), (-1, -1)}
Greek Mathematician Domain & Range Table, Mapping
Relation, or Graph Is it a
Function? Inverse
Aristotle
x = 10 D: {-2, -1, 1, 2, 5} R: {-1, 3, 4, 5}
Yes {(4,1), (2, -5), (5, 5), (3, 2), (-1, -1)}
Euclid
e = -5 D: {-2, -1, 1, 2, 5} R: {-1, 3, 4, 5}
Yes {(4,1), (5, -2), (5, 5), (3, 2), (-1, -1)}
Plato
u = -4 D: {-2, -1, 1, 3, 5} R: {-1, 2, 4, 5}
Yes {(4,1), (5, -2), (5, 5), (3, 2), (-1, -1)}
Ptolemy
ω = 0 D: {-2, -1, 1, 2, 5} R: {-1, 3, 4, 5}
Yes {(4,1), (5, -2), (5, 5), (3, 2), (-1, -1)}
Pythagoras
k = 20 D: {-2, -1, 1, 2, 5} R: {-1, 3, 4, 5}
No {(4,1), (5, -2), (5, 5), (3, 2), (-1, -1)}
Who’s right?
____=___
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 Stonehenge -- England
The curators of the mysterious ruins found that a mythic satchel was missing. They believe the contents are jewels from a departed alien life form. This could potentially be the fuel for a world conquering device. Atop one of the mammoth stones, investigators found nearly a hundred half eaten apple cores and this note written with sidewalk chalk.
The final act is near. I thought it’d be best to honor the locals by paying respects to their most significant mathematical figure – Isaac Newton. I toyed with some
different apple tossing strategies to inspire the genius I’ll soon need to complete this world conquering device.
I leave you with my last puzzle. A bit of calculus. Here are the models for my two different apple tosses.
Complete the tables. Graph them.
f(t) = 2t g(t) = t2
If you shade the region between the intersection points of the two functions, which shape will be drawn? This is the final piece of the puzzle.
y= 9 z= 9 e= 9 x= 9
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Gondola Dock -- Venice, Italy
A pair of gondoliers came upon a surprise when thet found the following carved in the floor of their boats. Soon after, they discovered some famous Fibonacci mystical artwork was missing. Later, investigators were sent a cryptic text message.
Blaise Pascal and Fibonnacci join together for a duet aria for the ages. Who will steal the stage? The Triangle or the Golden Spiral?
A + B + C +D = Z
Z = ______
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
It’s golden! Good luck cracking this code. ~The Diophantus of the Opera
D
))(( xUKyUKze
�
��Z
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Lines
Detectives,
The sun sets, the winds blow, and the international evil genius terrorist group the Mathemagicians wreak havoc on yet another world region. It seems they are making progress in their plans to build a world conquering device despite our best efforts to apprehend their cronies. China is the victim of the latest string of heists at the hands of a henchman (or henchwoman), Li Squareds. One thing is sure, Li Squareds is definitely some kind of henchperson.
As has become the calling card of the Mathemagicians, they have left behind a trail of notes with a cryptic text message. The text message when substituted correctly will calculate to the Li’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense and spatial reasoning can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Li Squareds to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Li is known to use in the notes.
- Slope & Rates of Change
- Calculating, graphing and interpreting lines
- Parallel and Perpendicular lines
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Li Squareds?
Name: Ken
Occupation: Butcher
Favorite Number : 7
Name: Tripiti
Occupation: Pet Store Owner
Favorite Number: 10
Name: Brandi
Occupation: Realtor
Favorite Number: 13
Name: Pete
Occupation: Rock Star / Philanthropist
Favorite Number: -19
Name: Dawne
Occupation: Archivist
Favorite Number: -10
Name: Nash
Occupation: Insurance Salesman
Favorite Number: 11
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 National Art Museum of China -- 中国美术馆
Li Squareds broke into the National Art Museum of China and emerged with a ceremonial dragon dance costume. Cameras caught a glimpse of this heist as Li danced out of the museum untouched -- in full dragon gear. Security Guards assumed the night custodians were having a bit of fun.
Nǐhǎo dudes, I’m honored that your elite team of investigators has decided to waste hundreds of man-hours attempting to crack my uncrackable puzzles. I hope you like change. Rates of change in fact. No place in the world changes as fast as China, and no evil mathematician group increases the rate of change like the Mathemagicians!!1!11!
I drew this amazing piece of dragon art out of 18 straight line segments.
Find the slope of all 18 segments and add them together. This answer will be equal to龙. (All Undefined Slopes will count as 0 and all ordered pairs are integer coordinates)
(NOTE: Don’t count the flaming ball of fire, that’s just there to be super cool.)
龙= ________
Scene #2 Quanjude Restaurant –- 全聚德
A waitress noticed that eighteen mutated duck legs were stolen. After a thorough investigation, police found pieces of this note in five different fortunate cookies.
I just realized that going to China qualifies as roaming on my cell phone plan. I need to get a local cell or I’m going to need to sell my car and I really need to stay in touch with the rest of the Mathemagicians. Oh no! More change! Here are my options:
RMB = Renminbi, the official currency of China
If I send 1,500 texts per month, which plan is the cheapest? Write equations for each company to find out! The first English letter of the cheapest company will be equal to 2.
___ = 2
Company Unlimited Calls (per month) Texts Mobile 中国移动通信 30 RMB .08 RMB/text
Unicorn 中国联通 20 RMB .10 RMB/text
Telecom 中国电信 10 RMB .12 RMB/text
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Beijing West Railway Station -- 北京西客站
A conductor on a high speed train entered an onboard restroom and imagine his surprise to find the ceiling been dismantled, the wiring in disarray, and a hybrid electric fuel cell missing. Found written on a roll of toilet paper was this note left by Li Squareds.
These trains sure go fast. After doing some riding, I built these linear models to estimate their travel time including their station stops. If I’m trying to conquer the world quickly, I need the
fastest train.
Which one is the fastest? (x = hours, y = miles. I’m using mph instead of km/h for you silly Americans.)
(letter of train)=(speed of train)
______=______ Scene #4 Yabuli Ski Resort –- 亚布力滑雪旅游度假区
A kiloton of pure Mongolian snow was snatched off the top of the highest mountain in the Yabuli Ski Resort. Investigators deciphered this note written in the snow in some sort of liquid.
As you can imagine when descending the slopes, I have a need -- a need for speed. Figure out which hill gives me the steepest, dopest, decline. Graph
and label them so you don’t get confused.
Hill M: Travels through points (1, 7) & (6, 4)
Hill T: 2x + 6y = 30
Hill U: Travels through the point (6, 1) with a slope of -4/5
(fastest hill)=(its slope)
______= ______
Zhōngguó gāosù tiělù
U D T M B y + 12 = 175x
y + 55
= 31x 186x – y = 10 y = 100x -10 y
100= x − .15
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 The Great Wall –- 万里长城
Investigators believe forty-five perfectly square limestone bricks were taken from the North Pass in the Great Wall. It is believed these bricks will be foundational pieces in the world conquering device.
Lots of interesting landscaping in this country. I’m certainly happy to be heading back home with all my goodies, but I’ve been inspired to go home and do some yard work. In fact I plan to make the Great Wall of Li Squareds. The big question is where to put it…
If you want to figure out where I’m going to put it, just follow the directions and figure out the equation of the final line.
1. A line parallel to A that travels through the point (5, 1).
This line is _______________
2. A line perpendicular to the new line that travels through the point (0, 2).
This line is _____________
3. A line perpendicular to the new line that travels through the point (-2, -2).
This line is _________
4. A line parallel to the new line that travels through the point (-1, 1).
This line is _________
Find the line and then the next piece of the puzzle.
y = ½ x + 1 y = -2x -1 y = -2x + 1 y = ½ x - 1
爱= ½ 喜 = -2 信 = -2 熊猫 = ½
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 The Forbidden City -- 故宫博物院
Inside what is now the modern Palace Museum, curators discovered nine ritual bronze vessels of the Shang and Zhou eras were stolen. These vessels demonstrate the technological sophistication of early metal casting. Li Squareds left this note their place.
Change is good. Fast change is better. You should take a look at China’s recent Gross Domestic Product. It’s on the up and up.
Based on the trend line, what is the GDP predicted to be in the year 2018?
有一个愉快的一天
钱=______
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
Double check your stroke order when using your Mandarin. Loving Lines. ttyl Li Squareds
(M +喜)* 钱 + (龙* U )+[( T + M - 喜)/ 龙]
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Inequalities & Absolute Value
Detectives,
The boys and girls have once again come out to play. This time, the international evil genius terrorist group the Mathemagicians are running amok over the formerly safe, docile lands of Scandinavia. Although we have apprehended a number of their associates, we have yet to recover any pieces of their ill-conceived world conquering device that they soon may deploy to – conquer the world. From the intelligence we have gathered, the anonymous henchman Algor Rhythmsson is the culprit behind these robberies.
As with other crimes related to the Mathemagicians, they have left behind a trail of mathematical puzzles and a cryptic text message that needs to be deciphered. When substituted correctly, the text message will calculate to the Algor’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Algor Rhythmsson to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Algor is known to use in the notes.
- Solving & Graphing Inequalities
- Compound Inequalities
- Solving Absolute Value Equations
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Algor Rhythmsson?
Name: Sydney
Occupation: CIA Operative
Favorite Number : -3
Name: Luigi
Occupation: Restaurant Owner
Favorite Number:- 1
Name: Murphy
Occupation: Adjunct Sculpture Instructor
Favorite Number: 1
Name: Waldo
Occupation: Police Officer
Favorite Number: -911
Name: Dorothy
Occupation: Retired
Favorite Number: 1/2
Name: Doyle
Occupation: Landscaper
Favorite Number: 33
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Haunted House –- Stockholm, Sweden
Last night, Algor Rhythmsson broke into a spooky old vacant home. Apparently the Swedes have a thing for vampires. Investigators believe some garlic immune vampire blood have tampered with.
Young lads, I finished a viewing of Låt den rätte komma in or as you Americans would say Let the Right One In. While you watch Twilight: New Baboon, the Swedes watch GOOD vampire movies. Hopefully your math skills surpass your taste in movies.
A vampire is hiding in one of the rooms of this haunted house (numbered -10 to 10). Eight different vampire hunters checked different rooms. None of them found the vampire. Through process of elimination, see if you can figure out where the vampire must be hiding.
1.) v + 2 > 10 2.) 3v < -12 3.) |v + 5| > 6 4.) |2v| < 2
5.) > 0 6.) |v| = 5 7.) -3v > 6 8.) |v|- 5 = -4
V= ________
Scene #2 Sognejord –- Norway
A large ferry captain noticed a few hundred broken spoons floating in the Sogneford -- the largest fjord in Norway. It turns out that Algor Rhythmsson scrapped layers of snow off of the Jostedalsbreen – Europe’s -- largest continental glacier. Lots of largeness.
Getting visual for a minute. Plot the line 2x + 3y < 9
Which of the following points is in the solution set?
(3,1) d = 2
(5, 2) n = 2
(-4, -2) t = 2
(2, 4) v = 2
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Streets of Malmo -- Sweden A Swedish street food vendor was caught off guard when a person dressed as the lead singer from Abba, stole his special mustard sauce and knocked over his cart.
Yes No
d = -4
S = 1/3
Scene #4 Kingdom of Crystal –- Nybro, Sweden
Nineteen candleholders made of world famous Swedish glass were stolen from a safe inside a vault, behind a gate, past a security guard. The glassblower claims these are one of a kind items made from glass extracted after the most powerful lightning strike in Swedish history.
Succeeding at impossible security breaches and adding pieces to our World Conquering Device! Yay! I’m about to compound your problems… with some compound inequalities. Match!
1. 6r > 12 and -2r > -8
2. 2r - 1 > 7 or 7r - 3 > 4
3. |r - 1| < 2
4. |r – 2| > 3
One of the answer choice letters should be leftover unless you made a horrific mistake
(letter left out)= -11 ______= -11
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 Viking Ship Museum – Oslo Norway
It is believed Algor Rhythmsson pulled off a rather unusual heist for his finale. With security guards on patrol, Rhythmsson managed to steal a full-sized Viking longboat from inside a museum.
Turns out I’ve got some Viking blood in my system. Now I feel like growing a beard and pillaging. Turns out I’m closely related to a modern Viking family, the Longswords. They sort of adopted me, here’s what we’ve been up to. (Be sure to write these as inequalities or I’ll blow up the world).
1. The Longswords gave me 85 Viking coins to spend at the local mall (luckily they accept Viking coins). I bought a bear-hide shirt for 25 Viking coins and a seal skin belt for 30. I thought hard about getting a pair of Viking horns, how much did I have left to spend?
2. My adopted father, Papa Longsword, told me that I had to pillage at least forty-five houses before sundown. If I had pillaged thirteen homes before lunch and five after lunch, how many more do I have left to pillage?
3. Mama Longsword made me switch my cell phone company to Vike-Talk Mobile (an
international network exclusive to Vikings). I’ve been given an allowance of 30 Viking coins a month. If the flat rate is 20 coins and each text message is .25 coins, how many text messages will I be allowed to have each month?
4. I enrolled in an online degree program on University of Phoenix, Viking Studies where my first class is “Vikings, Great Vikings, the Greatest People in the History of the World”. On my first three tests I scored a 91, 88, and 95. I need an average of 92% to get an A for the class and my last test is today. What score to I need to get for an A?
Based on your answers, figure out which of the following statements are true.
Yes, 25 IS in the solution set of each answer d = -25
No, 25 IS NOT in the solution set of each answer n = 25
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Global Warming Institute City –- Sodankyla, Finland
While researching the effects of global warming on the arctic tundra of northern Finland, geologists noticed that the entire population of lichen was plucked from the marshes. Later they found this note from Algor Rhythmsson.
Soon it seems Finland will be completely melted by global warming. One way that we contribute to climate change is by doing things that release CO2 into the air.
The Kyoto Protocol is an agreement among nations that sets a target for maximum CO2 emissions for each nation. The emissions target is 24.80 pounds per day.
Write an inequality and calculate the number of miles you can travel in each mode of transportation and remain below 24.80 pounds of CO2. Use the variable m to represent number of miles. Round your answers to the nearest tenth.
Average Car Average SUV Jet Mass Transit (1/4 full)
Mass Transit (3/4 full)
Add up the miles from each of the five problems this is equal to m. m=______
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
Greetings from Norseland. Good luck. Algor Rhythmsson
CO2 Emissions per Activity
Transportation Emissions (lbs) per Passenger
per Mile
Average Car 1.10
Average SUV 1.67
Jet 0.97
Mass Transit (1/4 full) 0.75
Mass Transit (3/4 full) 0.26
tndsmvmt ���� )(
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Systems
Detectives,
What’s another month without a series of high profile robberies at the hands of the Mathemagicians? The evil genius terrorist group has pulled off another elaborate crime spree that has left the continent of Africa in disarray. As the Mathemagicians work to build their world conquering device, our investigators are trying to piece together the thefts by an anonymous associate, Hakuna Math Ata.
Cocky as always, the Mathemagicians have left behind a trail of mathematical puzzles and a cryptic text message that must be solved. After solving the puzzles, you can decode the message which will lead to Hakuna’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Hakuna Math Ata to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Hakuna is known to use in the notes.
- Solving Systems with Elimination and Substitution
- Graphing Systems of Equations
- Solving & Graphing Systems of Inequalities
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Hakuna Math Ata?
Name: Marcy
Occupation: Computer Scientist
Favorite Number : 1
Name: Bella
Occupation: Fashion Designer
Favorite Number: -315
Name: Ted
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer
Favorite Number: i
Name: Pat
Occupation: eBusiness Entrepreneur
Favorite Number: 44
Name: Osbert
Occupation: Executive Assistant
Favorite Number: 2
Name: Jebediah Wolfhead
Occupation: Poet / Scholar
Favorite Number: -9
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Nairobi National Park –- Nairobi, Kenya
Last night, Hakuna Math Ata snuck into the National Park and left with five baby black rhinos. Investigators believe the baby rhino DNA may be a super serum for the world conquering device.
Jambo Westerners! Since I’ve been employed to steal a variety of things across Africa, I figure I’ll try to enjoy interesting things along the way. No worries, eh? Hakuna Matata as Hakuna Math Ata likes to say. You can try to catch me, but I’m gonna throw some algebra systems in your way. Here’s your first…
In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the mommy rhino sleeps tonight. And then I stole her babies. She mad.
I leave you with the safari receipts for two families. If you can figure out how much a Child ticket costs, you’ll know the answer to the next puzzle.
C =______
Scene #2 Regional Centre for Renewable Energy –- Praia, Cape Verde
One of the foremost research labs in sustainable energy discovered last night that a prototype for their solar powered monster truck was stolen. In its place, they found this note.
Animals live, graze, get turned into hotdogs, cooked, eaten by people who then artificially inseminate more animals -- It’s the Circle of Life. We’re not going to cook these dogs on a grill or in a pot, but on a
solar oven. Let the sun do the work.
Solar Oven B:
The chef starts her oven at t = 0 and her oven heats an average of 4 degrees per minute.
Solar Oven A:
The chef started four minutes later and heats an average of 8 degrees per minute.
What will the temperature be when the ovens are the same? This temperature will be T. (I’d solve it instead of trust a graph).
T =______
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Ngorongoro Conservation Area -- Serengeti Plains, Tanzania
A park ranger was astonished to find large excavation markings in the famous Ngorongoro Crater, a massive, unflooded volcanic caldera (kind of like a big bowl). Some estimate the crater to be 2 million years old. At this time, investigators are unclear how this factors in the plans of the Mathemagicians.
It’s unclear how the volcanic caldera will factor in the plans of the Mathemagicians, but I love it! I think it can turn some vagabonds into kings! Can you feel the love tonight? Onto our problem…
A pair of confused math friends have different pieces to one system of equation, but they’re not sure how to find their answer.
(1, 3) m = 3 (-4, 0) s = 20
No Solutions u = 21 Infinite
Solutions b = 26
Scene #4 Lake Tanganyika –- Central Africa
A ferry boat captain for the Heart of Peacefulness and Delight cruise line was alarmed when a patron jumped overboard. The figure had stolen a ceremonial African Biombo mask. The staff later found this note in a bed.
There’s a lost African treasure somewhere around here! Some think it is the riches of a Zulu king hid it during the age of Imperialism. Supposedly it’s at one of these six points and it’s in the solution to this system of inequalities. I just can’t wait to be king!
Which of the points is in the solution set?
. ______=-300
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 Namib Desert – Namibia
This morning it was discovered that thousands of Namib Desert beetles were taken by Hakuna Math Ata. These beetles have developed a unique technique to survive by obtaining water from early morning fogs. It is believed this power may be used in the world conquering device somehow.
It’s almost getting to the time for the strange old baboon to hold up a brand-spanking new baby lion. That means our story is coming to an end. Match the number of the question to the letter of the answer choice and put them on the row along the bottom.
___ = ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
______=______
1 2
3 4
5 6
7
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Mount Kilimanjaro –- Tanzania
Last night, it’s believed Hakuna Math Ata scaled a peak and dug up a field of indigenous African blood lilies. It’s suspected the blood lilies have some sort of value to the world conquering device. Carved into the side of the mountain they found this note and were sent a cryptic text message.
Simba lives in Kenya and he is applying for a microcredit loan to start a street food business Slimy Yet Satisfying. He is taking out a 40,000 Kenyan Shilling loan (about $570) and will have a 30,000 Kenyan Shilling monthly credit line.
Write cost and revenue equations to determine how long it will take Simba to break even.
Slimy Yet Satisfying
Initial costs 48,000 shillings Projected
Monthly Revenue 36,000 shillings
Projected
Monthly costs 30,000 shillings
Cost
Equation Revenue
Equation
The number of months it takes to break even will be equal to S.
s= ________
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
I’m here on Pride Rock. You have an epic coming of age journey ahead. Hakuna Math Ata.
bmu
st
mc
��
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Polynomials
Detectives,
As you probably could have guessed, the evil genius terrorist group the Mathemagicians are at it again. The latest series of heists have brought a dark cloud over the Land of the Rising Sun -- Japan. The latest heists are by the hand of anonymous minion, Hideo Nomial. Investigators fear that the Mathemagicians are putting the finishing touches on their world conquering device -- to conquer the world.
As has become their trademark, the Mathemagicians have scattered six mathematical puzzles and a cryptic text message that must be solved. After solving the puzzles, you can decode the message which will lead to Hideo’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense and geometry spatial sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Hideo Nomial to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Hideo is known to use in the notes.
- Multiplying and Dividing Monomials
- Scientific Notation
- Adding and Subtracting Polynomials
- Multiplying Polynomials
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. Oh, did I mention that use of a calculator might prematurely set off his world conquering device? Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Hideo Nomial?
Name: Tommy
Occupation: Game Show Host
Favorite Number : 0
Name: HD
Occupation: Entertainer
Favorite Number: -3.2 x 105
Name: Siku
Occupation: Game Designer
Favorite Number: -74
Name: Esteban
Occupation: Professional Ping Pong Player
Favorite Number: 6.9 x 1013
Name: Roanoke
Occupation: Farmer
Favorite Number: 1.1 x 105
Name: Yamamoto
Occupation: Automotive Executive
Favorite Number: 3.2 x 104
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Origami Laboratory –- Osaka, Japan
Late at night there was a break-in at a lab that specializes in mathematical, micro-origami figures. The scientist was devastated to find out his entire Pokemon collection was taken.
The sun will soon set on the Land of the Rising Sun. The Mathemagicians will reign! That is unless you can conquer my polynomial puzzles, but I doubt it. Off we go…
Add the perimeter of this origami crane, match it to the correct answer below and you’ll have the first piece of the puzzle.
Scene #2 Kantei –- Toyko
The office of the Japanese Prime Minister was raided and a thousand top secret flash drives were taken from the secret flash drive vault. In the vault, investigators found this note.
You shouldn’t spend what you don’t have and you shouldn’t need a Mathemagician to tell you that. If you’re not careful, you’ll be in worse financial shape than the United States. Let’s see if you can handle some scientific notation conversion...
In July 2012, the national debt of Japan was about $7.203 x 1012 (converted from yen to dollars) and the population was 1.27 x 108. About how much was each Japanese citizen’s share of the national debt at that time?
Round your total to the nearest dollar and find it below.
12x + 17y 12x +14y 14x +12y 17x+12y b = -4
c = -4
d = -4
f = -4
$52,919 $56,717 $58, 215 $60,420
a = 2.5 x 103
b = 2.5 x 103
c = 2.5 x 103
f = 2.5 x 103
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Higashi Hongan-ji -- Kyoto, Japan
During the night, a number of healing tea leaves were taken from one of the largest Buddhist temple in Japan. ATV marks on the floor and splatters on the carpet indicate Hideo Monomial was trying to make a fresh batch of tea on the run.
Let’s use a little area dissection on one of the world’s most recognizable flags.
Calculate an expression for the area of the white space on the flag and match your answer to the correction option below. (Use 3.14 for π)
Scene #4 Ryougoku Sumo Hall –- Sumida, Tokyo, Japan
A locker room attendant noticed a broken window around the belongings of the greatest sumo champs in the country. It is believed, Hideo Nomial stole the mawashis of the ten largest men from the dirty laundry. The attendant later found this note in a soiled mawashi.
Large men wear large mawashis. These should make excellent slingshots. See if you can handle a sumo sized chain problem…
Solve the equations from left to right and hopefully you’ll figure out z.
z = ______
4.86x2 + 1.72xy – 9.14y2
c = 2 4.86x2 – 1.72xy + 9.14y2
f = 2
4x(x-2) = 4(x2 -3)- 4
xy(y+x) = x(y2-7)+x
yz(xz – x) = xy(z2 – x) – 3x
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #5 Geisha Karaoke Restaurant – Kyoto, Japan
This morning the geishas were alarmed to find out that their trademark face powder and their best karaoke machine were stolen.
None of the geishas would give me their memoirs. What’s up with that?
How many of the outside expressions are the same as this one? This answer is equal to g.
g =______
x2 - 4x - 5
(x2 – 2x – 1) – (2x + 4)
(x2 – 8x – 2) + (4x -3)
2(0.5x2 – 2x) – 5
(2.4*103)
(4.8*102)
x2 – 4x –
(x5y2z)
(x3y2z)
– 4x – 5
(x-5)(x+1)
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Underground Ninja Academy –- Parts Unknown
It is believed that Hideo Nomial, disguised as a pizza delivery man, infiltrated the secret Ninja camp. Nomial left with a cache of ninja stars and nunchucks. Later the ninja sensei found this note and investigators were sent a cryptic text message.
Cowabunga dudes,
Since I’m a diamond class ninja, I need to build my team. One credential I’m looking for is a ninja’s ability to break down complex polynomials. This is a good indication of their ability to break arms and legs. You might not believe me, but trust me -- I’m a
diamond class ninja.
Choose the ninja who has the most correct answers.
Master Mitsubishi
b=10 Samurai Nintendo
c=10
Sensei Sony
g=10 Shogun Toshiba
f=10
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
It’s Hideo Nomial here. Cruising in my Prius. Here’s your code… If you dare.
)fd)(bz
fc( cg
uu
© 21st Century Math Projects
CSI Algebra: Factoring & Quadratic Functions Detectives,
We can literally count the seconds until the Mathemagicians deploy their world conquering device. For their last crime spree, an associate by the name of Calcuu Paraboloid has terrorized the United States. Based on our intel, we believe Calcuu Paraboloid is the leader of the evil genius terrorist group. Investigators suspect that the world conquering device intends to vaporize calculators everywhere! From Wall St. to Walmart, the world would have to relearn how to do basic arithmetic operations. In other words, it’s the end of the world.
As the Mathemagicians have done time and time again, they have scattered six mathematical puzzles and a cryptic text message that must be solved. After solving the puzzles, you can decode the message which will lead to Calcuu’s favorite number. So far there are six suspects that police have questioned. It is hoped that someone with a relatively strong number sense and geometry spatial sense can crack some codes that have puzzled the detectives on the case so far.
Your job is to bring Calcuu Paraboloid to justice and save the planet. You need to be prepared to state your case and demonstrate your understanding of the following skills that Calcuu is known to use in the notes.
- Factoring trinomials including GCF and Distributive Property
- Quadratic Formula
- Graphing and interpreting parabolic graphs
Be sure to include:
- Other examples of the concepts
- Definitions
- Any other relevant information.
This is not a time to be sloppy. The slightest miscalculation or illegible footnote could result in a not guilty verdict. We are counting on you. Good luck to you, gumshoe.
Chief Harris
© 21st Century Math Projects
Who is Calcuu Paraboloid?
Name: George
Occupation: Executive
Favorite Number : 1
Name: Tecumseh
Occupation: Chief
Favorite Number: -900
Name: Tom
Occupation: Writer
Favorite Number: -74
Name: Ben
Occupation: Inventor
Favorite Number: 1776
Name: Pocahontas
Occupation: Translator
Favorite Number: 42
Name: Betsy
Occupation: Seamstress
Favorite Number: 630
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #1 Yellowstone National Park –- Wyoming, USA
A ranger was stunned to discover the famed petrified forest completely uprooted. Investigators suspect Calcuu Paraboloid excavated an entire allosaurus skeleton. In the dirt, they found this note.
Land of the free? Home of the brave? We’ll see how you hold up after we flip the switch on our world conquering device. All electronic calculation devices will be one big cloud of poof. Go find your abacus and pull off your socks because you don’t have a chance at solving my puzzles.
Find the GCF of these three monomials. The coefficient of the monomial is equal to s.
792x9y13z4
1056x4yz5
220x12y6z2
s=________
Scene #2 Silicon Valley –- California, USA
The top secret headquarters of Google was infiltrated in the afternoon by a person dressed up like Elmo from Sesame Street. The person took sixteen prototype Google Gadgets. Based on the lost resources, it’s quite possible Google was preparing to conquer the world on their own.
You Americans seem to spend a lot time on your phone throwing birds at pigs. Well here you go…
Graph the path of the three projectile birds (you may need to make tables). The birds are launched from (0,0) and the pig sits on (4,0).
y = -2x²+8x
y = -x²+7x
y = 4x–x²
Zero One Two Three b = 0 i = 1 r = 2 d = -4
How many birds hit the pig?
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #3 Hollywood Hills –- California, USA
Security officials were called to a number of celebrity homes. It seems that Calcuu Paraboloid stole their luxury countertops. Based on the positioning of the mayonnaise jars, Paraboloid may have also made a sandwich at each house.
Party like a rockstar! I just robbed the six most important people in America according to TMZ! I left them each with a factoring question.
Jennifer
Lopez
Will
Smith
Oprah
Winfrey
15xy – 30y
x2 – 8x + 7
x2 – 9x + 14
Justin
Bieber
Lady
Gaga
Chuck
Norris
x2 + 11x – 26
4x2 – 25x + 6
5x2 – 6x – 8
Which four celebrities have (x-2) as one of their factors?
b = -2 u = -4 s = -7 a = - 9 r = -18
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #4 St. Louis Arch -- Missouri, USA
Missourians were baffled when they woke up to find that their famous St. Louis arch was stolen during the night. Witnesses saw a helicopter carrying an arch away, but assumed it was just some other arch.
Calcuu Paraboloid -- the New Spirit of St. Louis. This arch will be the perfect fit for the top of our world conquering device.
The shape of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri resembles a parabola with the equation h = -0.00635x2 +4.0005x – 0.07875, where h is the height in feet and x is the distance from one base in feet.
What is the distance from one base of the arch to the other? This answer to the nearest foot is equal to u.
u = ______
Scene #5 Cowboy Stadium –- Texas, USA
Calcuu Paraboloid carved a hole through the roof of the largest dome stadium in the world, the home of the Dallas Cowboys. He escaped with their jumbotron, which happens to be the largest HD screen ever built.
Everything is bigger in Texas. Too bad that doesn’t mean they’ll win a playoff game or beat the Giants. After we conquer the world, we’re going to build our own football field. Help us out…
In the NFL, a football field is 200 feet longer than it is wide, and the area of the field is 57,600 ft2. What is the width of the field? W will be equal to the width.
(Before you mess this up, the field is not 100 yards long. You must include the lengths of the endzones.)
(And hey wait a second! Before you mess it up now, notice the problem is in FEET)
w will be equal to the width of the field.
w = ______
© 21st Century Math Projects
Scene #6 Kennedy Space Center –- Florida, USA
NASA was rocked when the entire facility was hit with a bioweapon. Calcuu Paraboloid used the opportunity to steal a space shuttle. Presumably, this is the final piece of his world conquering device. The final note was left on the stall of a NASA restroom. The final text message followed.
Before you know it, the Mathemagicians are finally going to conquer the world! For my last puzzle, a Mars Rover baseball toss problem!
(Vertical Motion Equations: The height H of an object t seconds after it is propelled upward with an initial velocity v represented by H = -½ gt2 + vt + h, where g is the gravitational pull and h is the initial height.)
Suppose a NASA rover on Mars, throws a baseball upward with an initial velocity of 10 meters per second, letting go of the ball 2 meters above the ground. Since the gravity stuff works different on Mars it will take longer for the ball to land. How much longer will the ball stay in the air on Earth? The answer to this question rounded to the nearest tenth is equal to A.
Acceleration due to gravity 9.8 m/s2 3.7 m/s2 Vertical Motion Equation When does the baseball hit the ground?
A = ______
CRYPTIC PUZZLE SOLVER TEXT MESSAGE
Tick, tock, tick, tock.
)rs()ursrAw()uw
)br)(Asu(( 7��������