Lesson plan based on Cycladic Figure
Use the ancient Greek canon of proportion to measure and compare an ancient Greek sculpture to students’ body sizes.
Skills and Focus: Measuring, Problem Solving
Subject Area: Mathematics
Thematic Connection: Counting and Calculating
Grade Level: Middle School
Time Needed: 60 minutes
Objectives
• Practice measuring proportions.
• Convert measurements to ratios to solve problems.
• Determine whether there is sufficient information to compute the length of the sculpture’s missing lower legs.
Instructional Materials Needed
Ruler, yard stick, or measuring tape
Paper and pencils
Activity:
Step 1: Explain to students that according to the Greek canon of proportion, the length of the body is equal to 8 heads (1:8). Have each student measure the head and the entire length of the figure and record the information. Then have students calculate the length of the body using the 1:8 ratio.
Step 2: Have students determine whether there is enough information to calculate the length of the lower legs and then do so. Ask students to sketch the lower legs and feet on the printout of the figure to confirm their findings.
Step 3: Have students measure another student’s head and body length. Convert the measurements to a ratio. Based on their findings, discuss whether the Greek canon of proportion is based on the ideal or the real.
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 8: Use algebraic and analytical methods to identify and describe patterns and relationships in data, solve problems, and predict results.
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