A WebQuest Activity
for
Secondary Geometry Students
Introduction Task Process Resources Evaluation Conclusion
Introduction
The pyramids
have fascinated mankind for generations. They hold this fascination because of
their mystery and unanswered questions. Some of the questions that still remain
today include: Where did they come from? Who built them? Why were they built
where they were? This webquest will help you and an assigned partner look at
some of these questions and maybe help answer some of these questions or
possibly raise more questions. It will be your job to research some of these
topics, perform some mathematical analyses and share your findings with the
other members of your class.
After researching the Great Pyramids, you and your partner will use the information you found to construct a scale model of the Great Pyramid, perform mathematical analyses from the data you have collected and make a short presentation using this information. You will also analyze a specific topic that is of interest to both of you.
You will work
with an assigned partner to complete this project. You will be expected to do the work outside of class.
Your projects will contain the following:
1. Mathematical analyses that include:
- Area of
the base of the Great Pyramid and the two smaller pyramids.
- Volume of
the Great Pyramid and the two smaller pyramids.
- Lateral
area of the Great Pyramid and the two smaller pyramids.
- Ratio
comparison of the Great Pyramid to the two smaller pyramids.
Present your mathematical analyses to the class
using an overhead transparency, poster or PowerPoint presentation (include the
geometric formulas used to find your answers). Prepare a 5 –10 minute presentation about your
design. Teach the class some of
the basics of what you have learned and design a quick problem for a volunteer
to practice (Don’t pick a goof ball).
DO NOT READ BORING PARAGRAPHS TO THE CLASS! Discuss it like you know what you are talking
about! Use several visual aids to
help the class understand the topic.
2. Construction of a scale model of the Great Pyramid
using the medium of your choice. Suggestions: poster board, paper, blocks, wood or plastic.
3. Make a short presentation about one or two
facts that you and your partner found interesting (must be mathematical or
scientific).
4. Compare the great pyramid to one other
architectural structure standing today. Write about the comparisons in a
one-page report (must contain at least three paragraphs).
Part 1 - Measurements
Ancient Egyptian Monuments in Cairo
Part 2 - Construction of scale models
One lesson to
construct a model
Part 3 - Interesting facts
Part 4 - Other interesting sites and
Search Engines
The Step Pyramid Complex of Djoser
Your project (worth 100 points) will be
graded using the following components:
1. The
mathematical analyses used for the project.
- The construction of
your scale model.
- Your class
presentation.
- The comparison to
another architectural structure (one-page report).
Web Quest Evaluation Rubric
Through this activity you have seen how ancient worlds used mathematics effectively. You have had the opportunity to research some of the interesting mathematical concepts that relate to the mystical world of pyramids. You have applied the mathematics that you know to build a scale model pyramid and appreciate the obstacles that the ancient Egyptians encountered. Hopefully, you will be even more fascinated with the ancient world pyramids and apply the knowledge you gained through this activity to real world problems.