Scaling Problems Project Lesson Plan
Overview
In this lesson, students will apply scaling problems to complete a project. We’ll start by reviewing scaling problems. Then, students will apply what they know about scaling problems to draw an original image, create a scaled copy, and find the perimeter and area for each image. You can expect this lesson with additional practice to take one `45`-minute class period.
ByteLearn gives students targeted feedback and hints based on their specific mistakes
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Objective
Students will be able to solve scaling problems.
Materials
- Teacher slideshow
- Scaling Problems Project
- Online Practice
How to Teach Solving Scaling Problems
Warm-Up
To help students review before they begin their project, allow them time to work through the scaling problem example.
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If students seem to struggle, encourage them to draw a sketch to help them visualize the information. Students should be able to recognize that the information given would allow them to simply multiply the model’s dimensions by `5` to get the full-sized train’s measurements.
Introducing the scaling project
I have tried various scaling activities with students. Some of the ones I have tried have definitely been ambitious - I hadn’t quite realized how difficult it would be for students to make enlarged images of simple drawings. In the end, I have settled for rectilinear drawings.
For this activity, students should be given the Scaling Project sheet. The instructions and questions are given one side of the sheet with a grid on the other side.
In the space provided for their original image, students can use block letters to draw the word or phrase of their choice. For this scaling problems project, consider requiring approval of the words or phrases students choose - after all these are middle school students! Once students draw their original “image” on the grid, they should use a scale factor of `2-4` and make an enlarged copy on the graph paper you provide. Then they’ll answer the reflection questions.
Simplifying the work
To help reduce student errors, urge students to not use diagonal lines – their letters should truly be blocks to help simplify finding perimeter and area later. It may be helpful to have a reference sheet of the block letters on a grid available for students. In case they choose to use diagonal lines, they can use a ruler to measure the sides. Finding the area will be more challenging - they can do some estimation.
Scaling Problems Practice
After students have completed their project, it’s time for some independent practice with solving scaling problems! ByteLearn gives you access to tons of practice problems for solving scaling problems. Check out the online practice and assign to your students for classwork and/or homework!
View this practice