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Math Shadows is a hands-on, outside the classroom lesson in which students use shadows, similar
triangles, and proportions to indirectly measure
the heights of several objects on campus. By measuring the height and shadow of a student and the shadow of
an object (basketball hoop, tree, flagpole) the students can create proportions to mathematically
discover the height of those objects. This is a fun, active lesson that can be
completed in one class period.
Math Shadows Lesson Preview Pages (3 of 6)
Lesson
Description: Math Shadows is a hands-on, outside the classroom lesson in which students use shadows,
similar triangles, and proportions to indirectly measure the heights of several objects on campus. By measuring
the height and shadow of a student and the shadow of an object (basketball hoop, tree, flagpole) the students can create proportions
to mathematically discover the height of these objects. This is a fun, active lesson that can be completed in
one class period.
Math Content:
Indirect Measurement, Similar Triangles, Proportions, and Metric Measurement
Time Required: 1
Class Period
Math Shadows includes:
- 3 Math Shadows student worksheets
- 2 Math Shadows Teacher Tips pages
- 1 Math Shadows Cover Sheet
Materials Needed:
Tape Measures (inches or centimeters)
Suggested Grade Level:
5th-8th
Teacher Testimonial: Math Shadows is an activity lesson that gives students the opportunity to use some of their mathematical knowledge
in the real world. They work in groups and walk around campus applying their math skills in order to find the heights
of a tree, a basketball hoop, and a flagpole. A worksheet is included which allows the teacher to personalize the activity
for his students by choosing other objects that are found on his own campus. Students enjoy the change of
pace and the chance to work together.
Enjoy your lesson!!
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