Bringing Math Forward

This project can be used in a multitude of ways: as a STEM project or a PBL activity with STEM, using fractions or decimals, by individual students or pairs of students. Students must use the given information and their knowledge of area to design and create a paper pattern for a device to hold a baby safely in a high chair. Included in the teacher notes is a link to a Google doc with the student portion of the project.

In this activity, students take measurements and calculate the same ratios as seen in the Vitruvian Man and then compare the two sets of ratios. The activity can be used for distance learning, especially if it is being used as a review activity. Students will need help with taking the measurements but should be able to complete the rest of the activity without parent/guardian help. Teachers can adjust/eliminate pieces of the activity to accommodate their own needs.

Students work in groups to build a set of three nesting boxes using ratios. Students will also analyze the boxes and the ratios involving the edges, area of faces, and surface areas of the boxes. The project can easily be cross-curricular by having the themes of the nesting boxes reflect topics from ELA, Social Studies, and/or Science.