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Math students at the
Phoenix High School participated in a project to transform a scale model of
a dinosaur skeleton into a gigantic representation of the model to be
displayed in the school's hallway.
A
build-it-yourself model of a dinosaur was purchased. Students working
in groups were given a unique set of "bones" (from the model kit) which
needed to be transformed into giant "bones" for the school's model.
The
Task:
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The model has
this dimension: |
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The
transformed model must be this size: |
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The
Process:
Each group of students
will:
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select an envelope
containing the miniature "bones."
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determine how to
transform the small bones into larger "bones" which will be
assembled to form the dinosaur. The enlarged bones will be drawn
on cardboard and cut out.
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have access to the
following materials: meter sticks, yard sticks, twine,
markers, chalk, overhead projector, transparency paper, opaque projector
and graph paper.
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be invited to
participate in the assembly of the large dinosaur after school.
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be required to
submit a written lab report detailing how the group determined the
needed ratio, how the group actually reproduced the bones, what was
learned from the project, how these acquired skills could be useful in
the future, and how they, personally, felt about the project.
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receive a grade
based upon the quality and accuracy of their pieces, the completeness of
the lab report, task log, and conclusion statements.
Students are allowed
to personalize their bones with paint and/or artwork.
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Large pieces
of cardboard are needed for this project. Look for cartons
from refrigerators and large appliances. Enlist the assistance
of the students in securing the cardboard. |
The
Finished Project:
The enlarged
"bones" are assembled to create the actual dinosaur. String
attached to the ceiling and the walls helps the dinosaur "stand"
in the hallway.
Please direct
questions to Cheryl Fassett
or Lynn Millbyer.
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