Unit 2: Methods of Measurement

                             Unit 2 : Methods of measurement

Pre-Lesson activity:

Students will be asked to identify different tools of measurement they are already familiar with, and identify uses of those tools.

Lesson:

1. Students will explore triangles and determine which tools of measurement are needed to find different measurements of a triangle. Students would be expected to suggest a ruler/tape measure to find lengths of triangle sides and protractor to find angles.

2. Students will work in small groups and be given the task of finding the distance between two trees (this part of the lesson will take place outside of the school, either on campus or at a local park). The driving question for this section is to find the best method of measuring large distances. Rulers and tape measures will not be sufficient in measuring large distances; therefore students will be required to develop their own methods of measurement. After the activity, the class as a whole will share their findings and ideas to attempt to answer the driving question.

3. Students will work in small groups and be given the task of finding the angle of elevation of their school building from the ground. The driving question for this section is to find a method of measuring the angle of elevation using their knowledge of trigonometry and tools of measurement. After the activity, the class as a whole will share their findings and ideas to attempt to answer the driving question.

Desired Outcomes:

· Student ideas and class discussion will provide methods of measuring large distances

· Student ideas and class discussion will provide methods for measuring angles of elevation.