Discovering Pi Lesson Plan Information | Lesson Plan Activities | Printable version (including handouts) (PDF)

Standard: Use Math to Solve Problems and Communicate Outcomes Students will identify and measure the diameter, circumference and radius of a circle. Discover the approximate value of pi through the relationship between the diameter and circumference and explain the formula.

Classroom Information

GED Descriptors:      math Roles:      Family, Worker Program Type(s)      ABE, GED, Workforce Education, Urban, Rural, Corrections NRS Learner levels (ABE/GED)       3, 4 Time frame:       Two 45 minute sessions Technology Integration Geometry in the Adult Education Classroom

Keywords

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Standard: Use Math to Solve Problems and Communicate

Component of Performance How activity addresses component Understand, interpret, and work with pictures, numbers, and symbolic information. Students will be able to identify the distance around a circle or perimeter. They will relate pi as a ratio of circumference to diameter and as the symbolic representation. Apply knowledge of mathematical concepts and procedures to figure out how to answer a question, solve a problem, make a prediction, or carry out a task that has a mathematical dimension They will perform division as the way to calculate pi, using a calculator as needed. Define and select data to be used in solving the problem Students identify diameter, radius, circumference and pi as properties of a circle. Determine the degree of precision required by the situation Pi is rounded from an infinite number to 3.14 Solve problem using appropriate quantitative procedures and verify the results are reasonable Students realize that pi (3.14) can be estimated to 3 for easy reference when problem solving. Communicate results using a variety of mathematical representations, including graphs, charts, tables, and algebraic models Share conclusions in math journals or with class.

Purposeful, Transparent, Building Expertise

Purposeful and Transparent Students are lead through a process of understanding the formulas connected with the properties of circles. Contextual Multiple opportunities are given for students to practice using circles that can be found in everyday life. Discussion happens around the usefulness of pi and how it appears in science and math. Building Expertise Students are using a discovery approach to finding the definition of pi and creating formulas that can be used when needed in their calculations.

Lesson Designer Judy Franks OLRC (330) 672-0753 jfranks@literacy.kent.edu

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