Mathematical Reasoning Team Activity - Quote My Pool

Quote My Pool is an interactive, problem-solving mathematics investigation in which students work collaboratively to calculate the total cost of hiring someone to paint a swimming pool.

Unlike traditional maths questions, students are initially given very little information. Working in teams of four, they must decide what information they need and formulate clear, purposeful questions to obtain it from the teacher.

Each student takes on a specific role, encouraging teamwork, communication and shared responsibility. As information is revealed, students apply their understanding of the area of circles, the curved surface area of cylinders, measurement, paint coverage, rounding and financial calculations to produce an accurate quotation.

The activity promotes mathematical reasoning, critical thinking and independence by requiring students to identify relevant information, make decisions, justify their calculations and evaluate the accuracy of their solutions.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Key skills: Surface area, measurement, problem-solving, mathematical questioning, reasoning, financial literacy and collaboration.