8th Grade
  • Project
  • 1 week

Math Models: Scaling Local Landmarks Fun!

Morgan R

Purpose

This project aims to engage 8th-grade students in understanding and applying proportional and linear relationships through the creation of scale models of local landmarks. By collaborating with a local architecture firm, students will gain real-world insights into how these mathematical concepts are used in professional design and construction. The hands-on experience, combined with reflection and presentation opportunities, will deepen students' comprehension of math's practical applications and enhance their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Learning goals

Students will develop a deep understanding of proportional and linear relationships by applying these concepts to design and construct accurate scale models. They will enhance their collaboration and critical thinking skills through team brainstorming and iterative design processes. Additionally, students will strengthen their communication abilities by presenting and explaining their mathematical reasoning and design choices to diverse audiences during the Scale Model Showcase.
Standards
  • Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.EE.B.5: Graph proportional relationships, interpreting the unit rate as the slope of the graph. Compare two different proportional relationships represented in different ways.
  • Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.G.A.3: Describe the effect of dilations, translations, rotations, and reflections on two-dimensional figures using coordinates.
  • Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.8.G.A.4: Understand that a two-dimensional figure is similar to another if the second can be obtained from the first by a sequence of rotations, reflections, translations, and dilations; given two similar two-dimensional figures, describe a sequence that exhibits the similarity between them.

Products

Students will create a detailed scale model of a local historical building using cardboard and other recyclable materials, ensuring accurate representation of its dimensions and proportions. Throughout the project, students will maintain a daily reflection journal documenting their design process, challenges, and solutions. They will also prepare a presentation that includes their mathematical calculations and the application of proportional relationships in their model design.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Design Day' where students form teams to brainstorm and sketch initial ideas for their scale models. Encourage them to use proportional reasoning to plan their designs, drawing inspiration from images of local landmarks. Provide graph paper and rulers for students to begin converting real-world measurements into scaled dimensions, setting the stage for their hands-on modeling experience.

Exhibition

Invite the school community to a 'Scale Model Showcase' in the auditorium, where students proudly display their models and accompanying posters. Each exhibit features detailed explanations of their design process, mathematical calculations, and the proportional relationships applied. Encourage students to engage with visitors, answer questions, and discuss their learning experiences. This event offers a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and creativity to parents, teachers, and local community members.