Education Technology

The Art Gallery Problem

Subject Area
Math: Calculus: Applications of the Derivative
Math: Calculus: Other Functions
Math: AP Calculus: AP Calculus
Level
9-12
Activity Time
45 Minutes
TI Calculator
TI-Nspire™ CX series
Resource Types
Lessons

The Art Gallery Problem

Activity Overview

The question of where patrons should stand to enjoy the best view of a painting is one that art gallery curators must consider on a regular basis. For this activity, we will consider a painting that is 2 meters in height that is placed 1 meter above the average person's eye level. At what distance from the wall should the average person stand in order to get the best view?

Before the Activity

Download the attached PDF and look over the information on the first page. A .tns file containing expected student results is also available for download. (Students begin with a new TI-Nspire document.)

During the Activity

Discuss the material from the activity pages with students as needed.

After the Activity

Encourage students to summarize what they have learned from completing the activity. If desired, discuss the extension with students.

Subject Area
Math: Calculus: Applications of the Derivative
Math: Calculus: Other Functions
Math: AP Calculus: AP Calculus
Level
9-12
Activity Time
45 Minutes
TI Calculator
TI-Nspire™ CX series
Resource Types
Lessons
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