Algorithmically Superior 3 Copyright © 2026 Pearson Education, Inc. Algorithmically Superior (50 – 60 minutes) Learning Objective(s): Students will select quadratic and exponential functions to model bivariate numerical data. Students will solve problems with bivariate data. Material needed: Student pages: Algorithmically Superior Calculator or online calculator Graph paper Lesson Procedure: Warm–Up 10 minutes Prompt: When you use social media apps on your phone, where do you think the data is stored? Discuss: Have students share with the group their ideas about how cloud storage of data works. Guided Instruction 15 minutes Present: scenario for Algorithmically Superior Example: The storage and distribution of data from cloud servers to phones is a complex problem. A lot of research goes into providing fast and efficient data storage and retrieval. How do you think engineers can measure and optimize data storage? Sample answer: They can run an experiment and time how long it takes for data to get to the destination. What types of models could be used to model their data? Sample answer: linear, quadratic, or exponential models Review: key terms – exponential model, quadratic model quadratic model: a quadratic function that is used to explain bivariate data exponential model: an exponential function that is used to explain bivariate data Independent Practice 20 minutes Distribute: student activity Algorithmically Superior Have students select the appropriate models. Then, have them discuss #5 and #6 in pairs. Have students support each other and be courteous to each other during their discussion. Closure 10–15 minutes Review Answers: 1. B 2. C 3. Sample answer: We chose the same models, but we used different methods. I plotted each point to see which curve of best fit was a match. My partner looked at how quickly the points were changing and selected a graph that matched that rate of change. Both methods worked. 4. a. Sample answer: The sorting algorithm would use less energy, because it does not rise as fast as the data distribution algorithm. b. Sample answer: The exponential cost growth associated with data processing might mean that managers will try to run the data distribution algorithm less often. Discuss: What are the main differences between a quadratic model and an exponential model?
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