Theme:
Ratio and Proportion and Architecture
Objectives:
To reinforce the concepts of ratio and proportion and show the relatedness of these concepts to Architecture
Mathematical Skills:
The accuracy in measuring
Material:
Ruler, pencil, worksheets, overhead projector
Key Question:
How does Math foster/hinder good Architectural designs?
Activity:
-
1. Lecture on Mathematical concepts utilized by Architects. Illustrate sample problems using overhead projector.
-
2. Students will be asked to work in pairs.
-
3. Each pair will be given one worksheet on which is the side and front view of a storage house. The scale or the drawing will also be given. Students will be required to measure the length, width, and height of the drawings and from these measurement give the actual dimensions of the storage house.
(figure available in print form)
-
—When students have completed assignment, teacher will lead discussion on the answers generated by the activity.
-
—Ask about the variation in the answers given. Why did each group arrive at different dimensions for their building?
-
—When you measured, what section of the ruler did you use? Fourths, eighths, or sixteenth of an inch? Look at your rulers again. Do you see where the error was made?
Extended activity:
Take students to visit Center church and other historic buildings in New haven.
