The project will be assessed using the Scale Model Rubric.
Using knowledge of ratios and proportions together with skills in precise and accurate measurement, students will be planning and building scale models of Louis Armstrong Middle School. Some of the first steps are indicated below. Students will develop scaled plans, then build their models using recyclable materials and present a written project description. As an extension, students will be encouraged to consider ways to improve upon the current building in terms of usability, economic or environmental impact.
Activity 1:
Follow this link to IXL Math and work the problems on scale factors.
You must do 10 problems from this site before you can move onto Activity 2.
Each student must write down each problem question and show their work for the answer.
East student must get teacher permission to move on to Activity 2.
You must do 10 problems from this site before you can move onto Activity 2.
Each student must write down each problem question and show their work for the answer.
East student must get teacher permission to move on to Activity 2.
Activity 2:
In this activity, you will convert the actual height of skyscrapers or the actual length of bridges and tunnels into a reduced scale of inches. The scale you will use is 1 inch = 50 feet; this is a ratio of 1:600 (or 1 inch on your model for every 600 inches in real life) . Round all answers to the nearest hundredth. To find the actual height or length, click on the name of the structure. Remember to keep the order of the terms the same in both proportions. (Copy this table into your math notebook please).
Name of structure Actual height or length (feet) Scale height or length (inches)
Activity 3: Scale Models
Read about how this school built a scale model of a city!
Activity 4: The Project Begins!
- With your team, read the rubric linked at the top of the page.
- Determine a plan for recording your data as you measure the building.
- Create a scaled (1/12 inch = 1 foot or 1:144) drawing on graph paper of the floor plan of the building. Include measurements on your drawing. Label doors and windows. Don’t forget about the height of the walls! (your building is 3 dimensional)
- Create a model using recyclable materials – secure it with tape or glue. Make it as realistic as possible.
- After each period that you work on the project, you must write a 2 paragraph Math Reflection (check the rubric)
Activity 5: Project Overview
- Details will be posted later.
Activity 6 (Extension): How could we make LAMS even better?
- Consider how you might improve the building to help the school financially, to improve the experience of students and teachers, or to positively impact the environment.
- Draw plans for your changes!!
LAMS Photos
Aerial View:
Aerial View:
