An example of one of my daily lifestyle trackers, in which I had a very good amount of exercise, excellent nutrition, and very good hydration throughout the day.
An example of a plate of food with a variety of fruits and vegetables, plenty of protein rich foods, and excellent whole grain options.
Considering my daily lifestyle tracker, I feel that I exceled at eating very nutritious food and burning the required amount of calories through various intensive physical activities. On the rest aspect, I am confident that I consistently get a good amount of sleep every night (usually 8-9 hours). For possible improvements, I think that I can work on being more social, especially with those I am unfamiliar with. Additionally, I can incorporate different types of sports into my exercising routine, rather than solely focusing on ‘racquet sports’. During this unit, I demonstrated the core competency of positive personal identity, which was reflected by my ability of eating consistently healthy foods, while being able to drink a good amount of water/other forms of hydration throughout the day, especially when exercising. I demonstrated the competency of personal responsibility in this way, by taking a few minutes after each day in the daily lifestyle tracker to honestly note my health down. It also reflects my social skills as I was able to effectively connect with friends, as evident on my daily trackers.
Throughout this course, we have explored many topics within computer programming, more specifically in the language of Python. In Unit 7, however, we discovered how to use Circuit Playground devices with Arduino. In this Unit, an assignment that particularly challenged and intrigued me was the “mini project” assignment, in which we were required to make an application utilizing a minimum of 3 of the board’s features. For my project, I decided to simple ‘Sun detector’, which would display red Neo Pixels when placed in areas with increased brightness and temperature (hence detecting a sun-like object), and display blue Neo Pixels when placed in areas with lower brightness and temperature. To do this, I used the temperature sensor, light sensor, and neo pixels output display methods. I began by researching the ways I could input these features into my project, and how they could be as useful as possible. Originally, I set the minimum temperature detection to be 20 degrees, but realized that the room was much colder than that, and reset it to 10 degrees, which seemed to be just right. In the process of creating the project, however, I did not remember to add proper commenting and documentation, which is something that I would like to take away from this project. Always plan your code out, and make things as easy to read and interpret as possible!
I can experiment with different ways of doing things. I can explore materials and actions. I can implement, monitor, and adjust a plan and assess the results.
The titration lab which we performed in our class was a lab which I found very interesting, yet considerably challenging at the same time. In this lab, we were required to do a titration between NaOH (Sodium Hydroxide) and HCl (Hydrochloric Acid). I found it more challenging due to the increased precision of the amount of the chemicals used, as my partner and I quickly realized that even a slight over/under application of a solution could negatively affect the accuracy of our results. As a result, it was imperative that we communicated clearly during the lab. I showed this attribute throughout this lab, asking my partner questions when necessary and splitting the work evenly. I also actively demonstrated that I can make effective judgements and decisions based on evidence.
Image 1: A lab device called a buret, which we used to store the base for this lab (NaOH). This chemical was eventually dispensed into the Erlenmeyer flask below.
Image 2: My partner using a suction bulb to pipet the acid into an Erlenmeyer flask.
Image 3: A light pink, pale, translucent liquid, which is the final result of the titration lab.
In Unit 4, we encountered various new concepts within the Graphics and Animation component of Computer Programming. One assignment which I found particularly interesting was the “Interactive Drawing Exercise”. At first, I considered the assignment to be quite challenging, and struggled to even come up with an idea for the project. After some thought, I decided to attempt creating a program that would draw the emotion of user based on their input, using turtle graphics and functions. At this time in the unit, we had not yet learned about key concepts such as recursive functions, list concatenation, and fruitful functions, which allow the program to be constructed in more efficient and condensed ways. As a result, the graphics for my code ended up being very long. After a considerable amount of coding, I got the program to work effectively and received full marks on the project. I did my best to follow all the criteria for the project, incorporating two different functions for the code. I think my code is well written and well organized with coding comments, algorithm, and docstrings.
I can experiment with different ways of doing things (Critical Thinking) I build the skills I need to make my ideas work, and usually succeed, even if it takes a few tries (Creative Thinking) I can ask open ended questions and gather information (Critical Thinking)
As shown above, the vertex form of a quadratic equation is: y = a(x – h)2 + k.
Within this equation, the value of ‘a’ determines whether the parabola opens upwards or downwards, as well as how steep or flat it is. A positive value for a makes the parabola open upwards, wile a negative value of a makes it open downwards. Additionally, the wideness of the parabola increases as the value of a decreases. The negative value of a in my equation clearly shows that the parabola will open downwards. And since the value of a is quite small, it will be considerably more wide in comparison to the parent function. The value of a in my parabola is -1/3.
When identifying the vertex of a parabola, the h value is half of the entire process. Our h value is crucial as it is our x coordinate for the vertex and determines the horizontal shift and the axis of symmetry for our parabola. If h is positive, the parabola will shift right and if h is negative, it will shift to the left. In our original equation, our h value is 5, allowing us to infer that our parabola will shift right, and our vertex will be (5,y). This means our vertex has shifted right from our parent function by 5 units.
The second half of finding our vertex is the k value. This is what gives us our y coordinate to our vertex. The k value dictates the vertical shift of our parabola and represents the minimum/maximum value. It represents the minimum or maximum value depending on whether the graph opens up or down. If the graph opens upwards, the vertex is at the lowest point of the parabola, and therefore has a minimum value. If the graph opens downwards, however, the vertex is at the highest point in the parabola, meaning that it represents the maximum value. With the example above our k value is -4 giving us a y coordinate to our vertex. This means our vertex has shifted down from our parent function by 4 units. This information gives us the vertex of (5, -4).
And, since the graph opens downwards (due to the negative a value), we can see that the maximum value of the parabola is -4.
Summary – Stats of the Parabola
(a) value: -1/3 (h) value: 5 (k) value: -4 Vertex: (5,-4) Axis of Symmetry: x = 5 Minimum/Maximum value: y <= -4
Self-Assessment
1. How did you represent the same mathematical idea in multiple ways in this assignment?
I represented the mathematical idea by showing that making alterations to the a, h, and k values of the parabola can have an effect on the position and shape of the graph. I did this by explaining the significance of each variable in my own equation, as well as using Desmos to graph my function.
2. State the relevant mathematical vocabulary words you used to demonstrate your understanding.
Parabola: A curved graph that goes through points according to its quadratic function. Vertical/Horizontal Shift: The number of units that the graph is shifted left/right and up/down Quadratic Equation: A polynomial function with 5 variables Vertex: The highest/lowest point of the parabola where the graph changes direction Origin: The midpoint of the graphing paper (0,0)
3. How did you use formatting to share this information in a clear and organized way?
I used Desmos to graph both the parent function as well as my assigned function. I then edited the image by adding the corresponding equation and vertex of each graph.
The first time I tried this problem I found it challenging because of how complicated it seemed, due to the large number of words in the question. I consider the question to be a very interesting question, however, as there are a few different variables, and it is formatted in the form of a word problem.
When I first attempted to solve the problem, I ran into some issues when performing the task of squaring both sides, which was necessary in the removing of the radical and simplifying the question. In trying to do this step, I failed to remember to square the π, and therefore ended up with an answer drastically different from the one in the workbook.
When I was stuck on this problem, I read the question carefully in my mind and made a list consisting of the most important information which was in the problem, such as the equation and the given variables. I also used my notes to see if there was a conceptual mistake in my way of thinking. Additionally, I asked a peer how they approached the question, and considered the problem using their methods. By using these strategies while attempting the problem a second time, I was able to effectively solve for the correct solution.
While solving this problem, I needed to remember how to interpret a word problem and use the given information properly. Order of operations (Bedmas), the FOIL technique, and knowing how to remove radicals from an equation were also important concepts for solving this question. Since it was formatted as a word problem, another useful strategy I used was to cross out any irrelevant words in the wording of the question, which effectively made the problem more clear.
Next time I encounter a difficult problem, I will first consider the given information and see how it will help me solve the problem. For example, this could include any easily variables or formulas/equations, such as the one in this problem (t = 2π√L ÷g). Additionally, I will recall previous concepts which apply to the problem by looking at my notes and useful videos related to the topic if necessary.
I am very proud of my progress throughout French 9, this semester. In particular, I feel that my ‘French Culture Project’ was a great representation of something which France takes great pride in, as a small part of their culture. During the project, the instructions were to create a PowerPoint showcasing a topic relating to French culture. I felt that a the game of chess would be a suitable presentation topic, as the history of chess has many roots in France. Throughout the project, I learned about the development of chess in France, and was challenged by the interesting openings and tactics which the French have create over hundreds of years. Overall, I enjoyed working on this project, as it also portrayed something which I am passionate about and was the topic for an entire project/presentation of mine.
I would say my work habits were quite good, however, I did get distracted at times and played chess in class (which isn’t really a distraction, as one might argue, since it’s my presentation topic!). Over the course of the project, my critical thinking skills were put to the test, as I had to analyze the various types of openings and defenses created by the French, such as the ‘French Defense’ and it continuations.
Something which went well for me this year was my academics, as I was able to achieve straight-As in every class. I feel that as a result, I can work more effectively, as well as with more confidence on assignments. Another thing that went well for me this year would be joining clubs and taking an initiative to start my own chess club. Our chess club has over 25 members, and we have also collaborated with Charles Best’s chess club to establish the SD43 Chess club.
Areas to Improve
Goals
Action Plans
Join more sports teams
Exercise for at least an hour a day and try more sports
Read more books
Read at least one book every month, and write a 1-page summary about it
Eat healthier
Reduce sugar intake and increase the amount of fruits and vegetables
Over the course of this engaging project, I effectively used my creative thinking abilities, when designing it with my partner. In doing so, I also trained myself to be able to work more efficiently during group work, as we both need to agree on how to project would work. We did this by requesting each other to bring the necessary materials to build it. In the end, our project was successful in its task of knocking down a cardboard tube.
What a year it’s been! I feel like this year has been a great transitional year into high school for me, in terms of making important realizations regarding my academic interests and plans for the future. This year, I learned a variety of vital life skills, such as time-management and communication, which have helped me significantly to reach my goals. It was a rewarding experience to meet kind and knowledgeable teachers, all of whom I consider to be pleased with my progress throughout the year. Whenever I had difficulty with something, I would reach out to them or my fellow peers, who had a better understanding of the topic than I did. In doing so, I also overcame the challenge of being able to spend a reasonable amount of time on assignments, rather than applying too much perfectionism, something which can be a ‘double-edged sword’. I am very proud of all my accomplishments this year, especially getting a straight-A report card.
My Favorite Website
Khan Academy Khan Academy is a wonderful resource for understanding concepts in a very engaging way. Personally, it helped me a lot with Math and Science, but I also found it helpful for Computer Programming. It has an uncountable number of videos, all of which contain great content.
My Favorite Video
Tim Urban: Inside the mind of a master procrastinator | TED A TED Talk done by Tim Urban, this video was very interesting to watch and taught me some valuable lessons about time management and procrastination. I watched this video in an effort to fight my habit of procrastination, and it worked remarkably well. It also gave me insight into the reasons as to why people procrastinate to begin with.
My Favorite Image
The image above is the advertising poster which a friend of mine, Bradley Perkins, and I, made for our chess club. It is definitely one of my favorite images this year, because it represents an initiative taken by Bradley and I, and encompasses something we deeply enjoy doing our free time.
My Favorite Quote
Albert Einstein Quote
The quote above would be my favorite quote this year, as it inspired me to incorporate more creativity into my schoolwork. Not that knowledge is not important, of course! Knowledge, while vital for success, to a certain extent, is not as paramount as taking a unique approach to things, as I have learned.
Tim Urban: Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator | TED. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arj7oStGLkU. Accessed 26 Apr. 2023.
Zygomatic. QuotesAndWisdom.Com – Quote: Albert Einstein – Imagination Is More Important than Knowledge. https://QuotesAndWisdom.com/38. Accessed 26 Apr. 2023.
