Bridges to Math Comprehension

Objectives:

Students will collect bridge statistics to use for geometry identification and measurement calculations.

Grade level: 4 (appropriate for 4-6)

Materials:

1. Student Worksheets
2. Computer and Internet Access
3. Calculators

Internet Resources:

• Famous Bridges of the World: Various Bridges from around the world (http://www.civl.port.ac.uk/comp_prog/bridges1/)
• Geometry Connection: Internet Schoolhouse Connection (http://www.onr.com/schoolhouse/)

Procedures:

1. Have students do Worksheet #1 Part 1: Collecting Data (html) / (pdf). This can be done at a one computer station as a Math Center activity.
2. Have students follow the directions on this student page while on-line.
3. Have the students find length and width facts about 2-4 famous bridges. (Teachers Choice)
4. Students calculate the requested items on Worksheet 2 Part 2: Comparing Data (html) / (pdf) based on the decisions they made on the web site.

Evaluation:

Data collection and accurate computation will be evaluated using a 3 or 4 point rubric.

Extensions:

Write about any interesting facts you learned about Famous Bridges of the world while participating in this project. Explore Related Web Sites see the Extension Worksheet (html) / (pdf).