Beyond the Bill: A Math Lesson in International Dining MYP 2 - Vani Upadhyay

Objective of the Learning Engagement:

Culinary Math Expedition: A Real World Adventure in Mathematics where students explored the intricacies of having a meal in a foreign country.

Details of the Learning Engagement:

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, finding creative ways to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application is key to fostering deeper understanding and engagement among students.

Embark on a 'Culinary Math Expedition' a dynamic learning experience that takes students on a mathematical journey through the world of international dining, fostering a deeper understanding of how discounts and taxes affects the final amount of bill and currency conversion.
The journey began with forming groups, or "dining tables," tasked with choosing a foreign country and finding a café or restaurant whose menu is available online.

Action: The Math Behind the Meal

Armed with a detailed handout, each group listed their selected menu items and prices. They drew discount coupons randomly, applied the discounts to their totals, and researched the service tax rate of their chosen country. After adding the appropriate taxes and tip (if applicable), they converted their grand total into Indian Rupees using the current exchange rate.

Impact of the engagement on students and reflection as a teacher:

This activity emphasized the importance of international mindedness, as students had to consider cultural nuances such as tipping practices and local tax rates, which vary widely across different regions. The task of selecting appropriate discount coupons further developed their decision-making skills. They learned that making smart financial choices isn’t just about calculations but also about considering the collective benefit.

The students successfully applied their understanding of percentages in a practical context, calculating discounts, taxes, and service tips and currency conversions during the activity. They demonstrated strong communication skills within their groups, working collaboratively to make joint decisions on meal choices, applying discounts, and determining the best method for splitting the bill. It was gratifying to see them use their skills in a practical context, making meaningful connections between math and real-life decision-making.

Students engaged deeply with real-world applications of mathematical concepts, sparking insightful reflections. They were intrigued by the fact that some countries don’t impose taxes, leading to meaningful discussions about how different nations manage public services. Students also reflected on the fairness of splitting the bill equally, especially after sharing food from everyone’s plates. This prompted them to think critically about fairness and equity, recognizing that paying only for what was ordered individually might not always be the best approach in a communal setting.

By engaging in this expedition, students left the classroom with more than just a completed worksheet. They walked away with a deeper appreciation for the role math plays in everyday life and a newfound confidence in their ability to tackle complex, real-world problems.

-Vani Upadhyay