Grade 8 Math: Mini Golf Courses
The project is the conclusion of the eighth grade algebra unit of graphing and equations of lines. The objective of the project is for students to apply their knowledge to a creative project that also draws upon their seventh grade knowledge of geometry (building geometric nets, right triangle trigonometry, and scale). The idea is for the students to experience being both an "architect" and an "engineer" as they create and then build their holes.
The project begins with students drawing plans by hand on a coordinate axis. They then transfer those plans to the Geometers' Sketchpad program. On the program they calculate the area, find the angle bisectors of the angles formed by the route of the ball, and perpendicular lines to ensure correct placement of the blockers that guide the path the ball travels. Students explore the concept that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. They calculate the distance that the ball theoretically travels, using the distance formula. The main criteria for the course is that the ball must make at least eight bounces before going into the hole, the course must have at least two geometric nets created from a single sheet of paper, and the course must have a ramp.
The project concludes with a mini golf course tournament where students assign a par and play each others holes. Once the tournament concludes, students pull together their plans and supporting materials into a finished document that goes on display for the other divisions to enjoy.
