Fun run
This is a level 3 geometry activity from the Figure It Out series. It is focused on interpreting simple scale maps. A PDF of the student activity is included.
About this resource
Figure It Out is a series of 80 books published between 1999 and 2009 to support teaching and learning in New Zealand classrooms.
This resource provides the teachers' notes and answers for one activity from the Figure It Out series. A printable PDF of the student activity can be downloaded from the materials that come with this resource.
Specific learning outcomes:
- Interpreting simple scale maps.
Fun run
Achievement objectives
GM3-5: Use a co-ordinate system or the language of direction and distance to specify locations and describe paths.
Required materials
- a ruler
- string
- Figure It Out, Level 3, Geometry, "Fun run", pages 14-15
See Materials that come with this resource to download:
- Fun run activity (.pdf)
Activity
To answer questions 1, 2a, and 2b, students need to work out the scale used on the map. From the key at the bottom of the map, they can see that 2.5 centimetres equals 0.5 kilometres, so the scale is 5 centimetres : 1 kilometre.
Students could look out for interesting places the run might go past. They should realise that there are a number of routes the fun run might take and that certain routes might be better than others.
Co-ordinates have been used in question 2. Students need to understand that to find co-ordinates on most maps, they need to first move up and then out.
Note that graphs normally have co-ordinates read as (x, y). Maps reverse the order.
- These co-ordinates are called ordered pairs. Up is known as the y axis. Out is known as the x axis.
Check that students know the points of the compass.
Here are some extension ideas:
- Increase the distance of the fun run.
- Students who are participating in the fun run need to train. Plan some interesting jogging routes of 2, 3, or 4 kilometres.
- Measure a 1 kilometre distance. How long would it take you to run this distance? (This connects to Measurement.)
- Discuss and use the scale found in an atlas. Plan various routes around New Zealand for a range of long-distance activities.
1.
Answers will vary.
2.
a. On the map it measures approximately 180 mm, which is 3.6 km.
b. It measures approximately 145 mm, which is approximately 2.9 km. (Note that you have to go round the roundabout.)
c. It passes over the playground and the bakery.
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