Polar Graph Art Project: Bringing School Spirit to Life with Desmos

In a surprise twist, many students in my precalculus class used over 30 equations to create stunning works of art using the graphing calculator software, Desmos. I had intentionally kept the instructions loose, allowing students to take ownership of their projects and explore different themes and ideas. The result was nothing short of amazing.

The project centered around school spirit at Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, NY, where I teach. We had just covered polynomial and rational functions in class, and students were eager to apply their new skills creatively. One student even created a portrait of Horace Greeley himself! The Desmos Art Project was so well-received that we ended up doing three art projects throughout the school year.

As an educator, I strive to provide my students with authentic learning experiences that truly engage them. With technology at our fingertips, it's easy for students to find step-by-step solutions to problems online. However, this approach can be limiting and doesn't allow for creativity and critical thinking. By giving students choice in how they demonstrate their mastery of material, I aim to foster a sense of ownership and autonomy in their learning.

In this project, students had the freedom to choose their own theme, equations, and design elements. They used Desmos to create polar graphs that represented school logos, symbols, or even abstract designs. The result was a diverse array of creations that showcased each student's unique perspective and creativity.

One of the most impressive aspects of this project was the way it brought our classroom community together. Students shared their work with one another, offering feedback and encouragement along the way. It was heartwarming to see students celebrating each other's successes and learning from one another's mistakes.

The Desmos Art Project not only showcased my students' math skills but also their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork. As we continue to navigate the challenges of hybrid learning, projects like this remind me of the importance of giving students choice and autonomy in their education. By doing so, we can create a more engaging and meaningful learning experience that prepares them for success both in and out of the classroom.

Polar graph art project heart desmos