A hands-on activity for explore a variety of math topics, including:
* Circumference and Diameter
* Linear functions and slope
* Ratios
* Data gathering and scatterplot
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2.
Here is a hands-on activity that allows students to
explore a number of concepts, depending on the
grade you teach:
Ratios
Circumference and diameter
Scatterplots
Linear Functions
Slope
Overview
3.
If your class is planning a trip to the pumpkin patch,
gather as many different size pumpkins.
Measuring tape
Two-column chart for gathering data
Larger poster for displaying data graph
Optional: Graphing calculator or graphing software
Materials
6.
Procedure
Step 3
Have students combine
their measurements into
one data table. Make sure
they enter the correct data
in the appropriate column.
Make sure their
measurements are in the
same units.
Diameter (in.) Circumference (in.)
7.
Procedure
Step 4
Graph the data as a
scatterplot. If your class
hasn’t covered this topic
yet, simply graph the data
for the students or use a
graphing calculator or
spreadsheet. Choose an
appropriate scale.
8.
Procedure
Step 5
Try to find the line of best
fit either visually or
quantitatively. Ask
students to interpret what
the linear graph means.
9.
Conclusion
The ratio of
Circumference to
Diameter is π, which also
happens to be the slope of
this line:
C = πd
The secret to the Pumpkin
π is in the ratio.