Gold Seal Lesson:
Let's Run It Up The Flagpole

Copernicus Education Gateway

 

Subject:

 

Mathematics

Grade:

 

 

9-12

 

 

 

ICLE Standards:

 

 

Problem Solving: Apply the process of mathematical modeling to real-world problem situations.

Reasoning: Construct logical arguments based on results of an activity.

Communication: Construct a written presentation based on a mathematical inquiry.

Geometry: Represent and solve problems using geometric models. Classify figures in terms of congruence and similarity and apply these relationships.

Computation and Estimation: Use computation, estimation and proportions to solve problems. Use estimation to check the reasonableness of results.

 

 

 

Performance Task:

 

 

The flagpole in front of the school needs a new rope to run the flag up the pole. The height of the flagpole is unknown. There are two pulleys on the flagpole used to raise the flag. The lower pulley is 4.5 feet from the base of the flagpole, and the upper pulley is at the top of the flagpole. Working in groups of three or four students, determine the height of the flagpole using both the shadow method and the mirror reflection method. After finding the height of the flagpole, compute the length of rope necessary. Prepare a written argument defending the method your group feels to be the most accurate.

 

 

 

Knowledge / Skills:

 

 

Perform operations with signed (positive and negative) numbers, including decimals, ratios, percents, and fractions.  (m1)

Use the Pythagorean theorem to compute side lengths of right triangles.  (m21)

Use the technique of dimensional analysis to convert units of measure (e.g., convert km/hr to m/min).  (m33)

Apply transformation concepts to understand and create congruent and similar figures.  (m49)

Use expository writing skills in subjects other than English language arts.  (ela58)

 

 

 

Rubric:

 

 

4 Points  =  The student completes all aspects of the task. Measurements made are accurate, well-documented and organized. The student shows a thorough understanding of the mathematical principles needed to solve the problem. Mathematical computations are correct. The student is able to analyze his/her work and formulate a meaningful and convincing argument for the chosen method of solution. The student makes a significant contribution to the team effort in performing the task.

 

 

3 Points  =  The student needs some coaching to complete all aspects of the task. Measurements are fairly accurate, but are not completely documented or lack organization. The student shows some lack of understanding of the mathematical principles needed to solve the problem. Some minor errors occur in the mathematical computations, but they do not have a significant impact on the solution. With coaching, the student is able to analyze his/her work and formulate a reasonable argument for the chosen method of solution.

 

 

2 Points  =  The student needs constant coaching to complete all aspects of the task. Measurements are fairly accurate, but are not documented or well organized. The student shows limited understanding of the mathematical principles needed to solve the problem. Some major errors occur in the computation, having a significant impact on the solution to the problem. The student is not able to construct a meaningful argument for the chosen method. The student makes little contribution to the team effort in the performance of the task.

 

 

1 Point  =  The student is unable to complete all parts of the task. Measurements are inaccurate and are neither documented nor organized. The student shows no understanding of the problem. No valid argument is attempted. The student works as an individual rather than as a team member. He/she shows no interest in working with other members of his/her group.

 

 

0 Points  =  Task is not attempted.

 

 

 

Keywords:

 

 

GEOMETRY
CONGRUENCE
GEOMETRY IN DAILY LIFE
PROBLEM SOLVING
PYTHAGOREAN THEORY
TRIANGLES  
TRIGONOMETRY
RATIOS

 

 

 

Grades:

 

 

Kg [] - 1 [] - 2 [] - 3 [] - 4 [] - 5 [] - 6 [] - 7 [] - 8 [] - 9 [X] - 10 [X] - 11 [X] - 12 [X]

 

 

 

ICLE Application:

 

 

D

 

 

 

 

 

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