Sophomore Students Explore Real World Geometry Connections
Sophomore geometry students at Roberto Clemente Community Academy have spent the last four weeks learning about mathematical proofs and the Pythagorean Theorem. This week, to better understand how these math concepts apply to the real world, students presented examples of right triangles in real life and explained how to use the Pythagorean Theorem to determine the measurements of different sides. In one example, a student determined the diagonal measurement of a television based on the TV’s width and length. In another, a student examined the measurements of a baseball field to calculate the distance from home plate to second base. In addition to applying problem-solving skills and performing accurate calculations, students exercised their communication skills by presenting their solutions to classmates.
Students have also explored how other geometry concepts – angles, transversals, and parallel and perpendicular lines – are present in the world around us. Looking at maps of Chicago, students studied how familiar streets and landmarks create different types of angles and lines, and then applied newly-learned theorems to solve real-world problems. Students were able to identify actual examples of academic concepts. For instance, students noted that Milwaukee Avenue, Grand Avenue, Elston Avenue and other “diagonal” streets in Chicago can represent transversals.These concepts will help prepare students for the next unit of geometry, which involves calculating distance and slope. Once again, students will connect academic topics to the real world through problem solving and project-based learning. In the upcoming unit, students will learn about food deserts in Chicago and will be responsible for determining how far individuals must travel to purchase food that is both nutritious and affordable. In addition to examining the availability of fresh food in Chicago, students will also have the opportunity to explore and analyze food systems in other countries for comparison.