Matthew Tinker North Middle School Principal
Melissa Haun K-12 Instructional Math Coach
Loudon County Schools
What questions do you have based on the “Up” video clip?
Student Inquiry Questions
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How many balloons does it take to lift the house?
How much would it cost to lift the house with balloons?
How many helium tanks are lying in the front yard? How many should be
lying in the front yard? If the number of helium tanks that are in the clip
were the total used to blow up the balloons, how many balloons does each
helium tank blow up?
Are all the balloons filled with the same amount of helium? Does it matter?
When will the balloons deflate and drop the house?
Will the number of balloons make the house hover off the ground or lift
the house up and away?
Does the temperature or elevation matter?
Will the balloons be strong enough to break the house off the foundation?
How many grams can a balloon lift?
1. Use the coins, tape, and balloons to make predictions
on how much 1 balloon can lift.
2. Gather, organize, and interpret data.
3. Share data.
Given Information:
 1 quarter weighs 5.6 grams
 1 nickel weighs 5 grams
 1 dime weighs 2.25 grams
 28.349 grams = 1 ounce
 16 ounces = 1 pound
16 ounces = 1 pounds
28.349 grams = 1 ounce
Based on our preliminary predictions, which object is
the most reasonable to test?
Student responses:
1. The house will take to many balloons to test.
2. Howie weighs more that Howie Jr.
3. It will be cheaper to test the lighter object.
4. It will take less time to test the lighter object since it will
take less balloons.
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
• Math - 6.RP.1 Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to
describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.
• Science - SPI 0607.Inq.3 Interpret and translate data in a table, graph, or
diagram.
• ELA - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused
questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
• Math -7.RP.1 Compute unit rates associated with ratios of fractions, including
ratios of lengths, areas and other quantities measured in like or different units.
• Science - SPI 0607.Inq.3 Interpret and translate data in a table, graph, or diagram.
• ELA - Gather relevant information from multiple print and digital sources, assess
the credibility and accuracy of each source, and integrate the information while
avoiding plagiarism.
• Math - 8.EE.5 Graph proportional relationships, interpreting the unit rate as the
slope of the graph. Compare two different proportional relationships represented
in different ways.
• Science - SPI 0807.Inq.4 Draw a conclusion that establishes a cause and effect
relationship supported by evidence.
• ELA - Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection,
and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range
of tasks, purposes, and audiences.
 Incorporating writing in STEM Activities.
 Using project results for writing and extensions.
 Student Writing Samples.
 Promotion of STEM class.
 Creation of STEM class as part of the special area rotation.
 Adjusted school wide schedule to present to student
body and promote the STEM class.
 TCAP/TNReady Kickoff Pep Rally
 Partner with a Pittsburg middle school to lift balloons and
see if elevation matters.
 Roller Coaster Project
 NMS Roller Coaster Test Team Trip
To promote cross curricular and grade level activities that
inspire team work and creativity and incorporate science
math, writing, and engineering.
This cooperative team work environment is an example of
the college and career expectations our local businesses
and university have voiced they are looking for in a
applicants.
 Find out what the students are interested in.
 Talk to local business.
 Develop Task and activities around these areas of need
and interest.
 Be creative.
 Use your imagination.
 Think Real World Application.