Activity Overview
Students calculate the probable number of Golden-Cheeked Warblers present in a particular area. Students prepare a marked map, calculate the number of square miles in the marked area, and estimate the number of birds that live in the area.
Objectives
Students will explore the following concepts in this activity:
- multiplication
- division
- measurement
- problem solving
About the Lesson
To introduce the activity, have the students calculate the area of the classroom. Have them calculate how much area per person the classroom contains. Distribute the student activity and have students read the details around the problem they will be solving.
The Problem: How many Golden-cheeked Warblers can live in the part of Kerr County shown on the map?
Review the four problem solving steps with students:
- Understanding the problem
- Making a plan
- Carrying out the plan
- Evaluating the solution
Students will answer the question by marking a map and creating a map legend. They will then write a paragraph describing their map. Students will then use their TI-15 calculator to solve additional problems involving area caclulations.