Vectors In Math class

Engaging Lessons on Vectors:

1)  I have created a glog with an embedded YouTube clip illustrating the power of cross winds on planes.  We then discussed the solutions of the two problems, also embedded in the glog.

2)  Next, we talked about heading and bearings with GeoCaching.  I created a scavenger hunt around my school, using the actual blueprints of the school.  The assignment is below.  Each group received a different set of instructions.

 “Find the Apple”.

Get Notre Dame Map draw in the following (Start on the outside left door)

a.       [030^o] for 7 cm.

b.       S10^oE for 5 cm.

c.       [210^o] for 15 cm.

d.      E5^oS 10. 5 cm.

e.       Take the stairs up.

f.       [330^o] for 10 cm.

g.      N60^oE for 9 cm.

h.      [220^o] for 20 cm.

i.        E40^oN for 4 cm.

j.        Take the stairs down.

k.      [020^o] for 8 cm.

l.        [025^o] for 8.5 cm.

m.    Go find the apple with a number 1 on it.

3) My students researched and worked on a real life application of vectors, by measuring the distance across the lake of their choosing.  The project is below.

Math 30 Applied Vector Project

Objective – Students will use vectors to determine the length of an object which can be measured directly.

1.      Using maps.google.ca find a lake for which you will measure the distance across.

2.      Take a screen shot of the lake and enough surrounding area to create two connecting vectors to the opposite side of the lake.

3.      Open Paint and paste the screenshot.  Print off the picture as well as save it to your H: Drive.

4.      On the paper copy, draw two vectors for which the resultant vector will be a vector across the lake.

5.      Determine the magnitude and direction of the resultant vector.  You may not take any measurements across water.  In practicality, your survey equipment would be in one central location, therefore, you may only measure the angles where the two vectors begin; all other angles must be calculated mathematically.

6.      Create a scenario to represent the resultant vector.

7.      Using Prezi, PowerPoint, or any other multimedia tool, illustrate your work.  Show your screenshot, your vectors used, and all work associated.

Here is an example of a student’s work.  **Super cool part… I had students completing short stories in math class on step 6!!!**

Vector Project on Prezi