Lesson plan based on Model Boat

Estimate, simulate, and compare the length of an ancient Egyptian boat using human rowers as units of measure.

Skills and Focus: Calculation, Measuring

Subject Area: Mathematics

Thematic Connection: Counting and Calculating

Grade Level: Elementary School

Time Needed: 45 minutes

Objectives

• Use numerical ratios to measure the size of an object of unknown size using an object of known size as a measuring tool.

• Gain an impression of the scale of an ancient Egyptian boat like the model.

Instructional Materials Needed

Activity

Step 1: Distribute pictures of the model boat to each student. Students should measure the length of the boat and the distance from the hips to the top of the head of each rower.

Step 2: Assuming that the distance from the top of a rower’s head to his hips was about 30", use this height to estimate the total length of the boat, and the length of the seating for the rowers.

Step 3: Using a yardstick, students can estimate the size of the boat compared to the classroom. Mark the outlines of the boat on the floor with masking tape, and arrange chairs for the rowers (or have them sit on the floor).

Goals

This activity meets Illinois State Goal 6: Demonstrate and apply a knowledge and sense of numbers, including basic arithmetic operations, number patterns, ratios, and proportions.

This activity meets Illinois State Goal 7: Estimate, make, and use measurements of objects, quantities, and relationships and determine acceptable levels of accuracy

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