Make Math Moments Academy › Forums › Full Workshop Reflections › Module 6: Long-Range Planning and Assessment to Make Math Moments That Matter › Lesson 6-1: Long Range Planning For Learning That Lasts › Lesson 6-1: Question › Reply To: Lesson 6-1: Question
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I recently put together a lesson that explored the pythagorean theorem where students had to build an access ramp to reach the top of a building. The inspiration came from the ramp that accesses our school doorway. Ultimately, while I found that this captured the attention of the students and had them generating some ideas, I don’t think I have been as successful tapping into the emotional side or spacing the learning in a way that promotes true retention.
I actually discovered quite quickly that there were some gaps in their understanding with algebraic equations, exponents and roots so while I tried to have them follow through with the lesson, we then pivoted to explore algebraic concepts. Ultimately, my goal is to circle back to re-explore pythagorus, but I’m worried about time this semester… as usual.
My general steps went something like this:
1. Image of school ramp with a character on it… notice/wonder?
2. Intro situation of ramp construction at building… how long will the ramp be?
3. Students use string to create ramp models through a series of right angle triangles.
4. Students collect measurements and try to determine how long the ramp will be.