Objective:
To allow students to choose a group activity related to this unit.
Materials:
List of Activities
Grouping:
Groups of 2 to 5 (Depends on the Activity)
Teacher Notes:
1. You and/or your students choose an activity related to this unit.
Activity 1
Write proportions using similar geometric shapes and solve for a missing measurement using cross-multiplying.
Compare similar geometric figures on the overhead. Compare the side lengths and record on a chart. Find the perimeters of the similar figures and write a ratio. Find the areas and write a ratio. Discuss the results. Determine the ratio of the perimeter and area of similar geometric figures given the ratio of their side lengths without finding the perimeter and area. Students find the height of a flagpole that casts a shadow a given length by comparing it to the given height and shadow length of an individual in the same situation. Write a proportion and solve. Create similar proportions by using a flashlight to create shadows within the classroom. Measure, compare, write a proportion, and solve.
Activity 2
Students will write proportions using equivalent fractions (ratio=ratio). What happens when you cross-multiply? Use an overhead projector and a transparency of geometric shapes and measure the shapes on the screen. Record the measurements while in Position A. Move the overhead and make the shapes larger or smaller. Repeat until the students see a relationship.
Activity 3
Students will experiment with mixtures of punch ingredients (assorted juices, soda, etc.) and sample before writing a recipe for making their favorite blend.
Materials:
Measuring cups
Containers to mix ingredients
Small cups for sampling
Activity 4
Students will write a recipe for their favorite snack mixture given a list of ingredients to select. What is the ratio of the ingredients chosen?
Activity 5
Students will use athletic statistics from sports collector cards, newspapers, etc. and discuss how it relates to ratio. Examine and discuss the school's athletic statistics. "Page won 6 to 2!" Is it necessary to state "Page won 6 points to 2 points!" Why? When should you identify the unit being compared?
Materials:
Schools athletic statistics
Worksheet
Transparency of newspaper sports page containing statistics
Students will use dice to discover the relationship between ratio and probability
Activity 6
Students will measure body parts, make a chart, and based on observations predict the unknown measurement given one of the measurement.
Materials:
Chart to record measurements
Activity 7
Students will compare the length and width of similar geometric polygons and determine a ratio (scale factor). Find the perimeter and area of each figure and compare. Students should summarize their observations.
Activity 8
Students will make a scale drawing (floor plan of a house) given the actual dimension. Given the scale drawing, students will determine the actual measurement.