Evie Raffanti

Science/Math Connect Labs

2 D VECTOR LAB

Purpose: To introduce vector arithmetic via a hands on lab

Materials: Toothpicks (the cheap flat kind) and colored pencils

Procedure: Students can work together but each should do the lab separately.

Teacher should circulate around the room and monitor results and assist as needed.

Possible Hook Idea: Something along the lines of “Where in the world is Carmen Santiago?” or “Where’s Waldo?” except use a teacher that is popular with the kids.

Set up a set of “vector directions”( with Chicago being the origin?) Students must find where the teacher is.

In order to find the “missing” teacher, the kids need to know a little about vector operations. The lab, which is quick, will introduce the geometry behind it.

Whereas this is not directly related to Science in terms of vector FORCES, it does lead into magnitude and direction….the key components of a vector object.

Teacher notes: The lab can be downloaded in one of two ways:

1) www.niles-hs.k12.il.us (brings you to district 219 home page)

2) go to west, departments, math, tim miller

3) click on NCTM logo

4)

The other way is to go to the NCTM website, annual meeting, Monday sessions and look for session #337, From Hands On to High Tech: Pre Calc Activities.