Automated Packaging Challenge - Sweet Machines

This resource, published by Georgia Tech Research Institute, features a mathematics activity designed for sixth graders. In this activity, students examine candy manufacturing processes to determine the most consistent process, building both math and decision making skills. Students will use "measures of center, spread, interquartile range and box plots to determine which new manufacturing equipment they should purchase." The activity is divided into four sections that last four class periods. The resource includes the following:

• A 6-page teacher's prep guide for the activity
• Materials list
• Supply checklist
• A 7-page worksheet packet
• An 18-page curriculum booklet for students along with an annotated teacher's version
• Two short videos demonstrating candy manufacturing and a Shark Tank manufacturing sales pitch clip