Introduction
In this Web Quest, you will explore how geometry is used in architecture to design buildings, bridges, and other structures. You'll learn about different geometric shapes, angles, and measurement techniques used by architects, aligning with Florida's Math Standards for Geometry. The guiding question for this project is: How does geometry shape the world around us, particularly in architecture?
Task
You will work in groups to create a narrated PowerPoint presentation. Your group will research different architectural structures and highlight the role of geometry in their design. You will also create a scale drawing or a simple 3D model of a building, bridge, or structure using geometric shapes.
Each group will:
- Research and select a famous building or structure.
- Analyze the geometric principles behind its design.
- Create a narrated PowerPoint explaining your findings.
- Present your scale drawing or model of the structure, incorporating geometric concepts.
Process
Here is the step-by-step guide to completing the Web Quest:
- Form groups: Each group will consist of 3-4 students.
- Assign roles:
- Researcher: Investigates the architectural structure and gathers information on its geometry.
- Designer: Creates the scale drawing or 3D model of the structure.
- Narrator: Writes and records the narration for the PowerPoint presentation.
- Editor: Compiles all the materials into the final presentation.
- Select a structure: Choose from famous structures like the Eiffel Tower, Sydney Opera House, or Burj Khalifa.
- Research: Use the following links to learn about geometry in architecture:
- Create the PowerPoint: Organize your research into slides with images, diagrams, and explanations of geometric concepts.
- Build the model: Design a simple geometric model or scale drawing using tools like GeoGebra or physical materials.
- Present your project: Prepare to present your narrated PowerPoint and your model/drawing in class.
Evaluation
Your project will be evaluated based on the following rubric:
| Criteria | Excellent (4) | Good (3) | Satisfactory (2) | Needs Improvement (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research Quality | Thorough and accurate | Some minor gaps in information | Lacks depth or has errors | Minimal research, many errors |
| Use of Geometry | Clear, accurate use of geometric concepts | Somewhat clear | Some inaccuracies | Little to no use of geometry |
| Model/Drawing | Detailed, accurate, and well-constructed | Mostly accurate | Some errors or missing details | Poorly constructed or incorrect |
| Presentation | Engaging, clear, and informative | Somewhat engaging | Lacks clarity or engagement | Difficult to follow |
| Group Collaboration | Excellent teamwork | Good collaboration | Some issues with teamwork | Poor collaboration |
Conclusion
Through this Web Quest, you’ve explored how geometry shapes the world around us, particularly in architecture. You’ve worked collaboratively to analyze, evaluate, and apply geometric concepts in real-world structures. To further enrich your understanding, here is an optional activity:
Enrichment Activity: Use Link to Interactive Geometry Tool to design your own geometric building. Apply the concepts you’ve learned to create a unique structure and share it with the class.
Teacher Page
Learning Objectives:
- Understand and apply geometric concepts, such as angles, shapes, and symmetry in real-world contexts.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems involving spatial reasoning.
- Collaborate with peers to explore and explain how math is used in practical applications like architecture.
Bloom’s Taxonomy:
- Remembering: Identify different types of geometric shapes and angles.
- Understanding: Explain how geometry is used in real-world applications.
- Applying: Use geometry to design a simple structure.
- Analyzing: Compare different architectural structures based on geometric principles.
- Evaluating: Assess the effectiveness of geometric designs in architecture.
- Creating: Design a model of a building using geometric principles.