Unit Plan 36 (Grade 7 Math): Cumulative Synthesis & Exhibition

7th graders showcase full-spectrum math mastery through integrated team projects combining ratios, equations, geometry, and probability. They model, compute, and present findings with clear visuals, accurate units, justified reasoning, and evidence-based critique.

Unit Plan 36 (Grade 7 Math): Cumulative Synthesis & Exhibition

Focus: Show what you know: teams tackle integrated problems and defend reasoning with clear representations, units, and critique.

Grade Level: 7

Subject Area: Mathematics (Integrated Synthesis • Modeling • Communication)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session


I. Introduction

This week is a culminating exhibition of Grade 7 mathematics. Students work in teams on multi-part problems that weave ratios/proportions, rational number operations, expressions/equations/inequalities, geometry (circles, surface area, volume), and statistics/probability. Emphasis: choose an appropriate model, show coherent representations, track units, justify reasoning, and respond to critique.

Essential Questions

  • How do I decide which mathematical tools and models best fit a complex, real situation?
  • How do representations (diagrams, graphs, tables, equations) strengthen a mathematical argument?
  • How can I communicate uncertainty, limits, and assumptions while defending my conclusions?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…

  1. Decompose complex contexts and select appropriate models (proportion, equation/inequality, geometric formulas, probability).
  2. Move flexibly among representations and keep quantities and units consistent.
  3. Solve multistep problems that integrate 7.RP, 7.NS, 7.EE, 7.G, 7.SP content; check results for reasonableness.
  4. Construct and present a clear argument, citing evidence from calculations, graphs, and diagrams; respond to peer critique.
  5. Identify assumptions/limitations and use precise mathematical language.

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 7 (comprehensive spiral)

  • 7.RP: Proportional relationships; unit rates; multistep percent/rate problems.
  • 7.NS: Operations with signed rational numbers in real contexts.
  • 7.EE: Expressions/equations/inequalities modeling, solving, interpreting.
  • 7.G: Circles, area, surface area, volume; angle relationships; nets.
  • 7.SP: Sampling/inference; comparing populations; probability models; compound events/simulations.
  • Mathematical Practices MP.1–MP.8 threaded throughout.

Success Criteria — Student Language

  • I can choose a fitting model, explain why, and keep units straight.
  • I can represent my thinking with a diagram/graph/table/equation and show how they connect.
  • I can check answers (estimate, bounds, domain) and explain reasonableness.
  • I can state assumptions/limits and answer questions about my choices.
  • I can present a clear claim with evidence and revise after feedback.