Education Technology

Discovering Pi

Subject Area
Math: Geometry: Circles
Level
6-8
9-12
Activity Time
60-90 Minutes
TI Calculator
TI-83 Plus Family
TI-84 series
Other Materials
  • Measuring Tapes
  • Yarn
  • Round Items
  • Ruler
Resource Types
Lessons

Discovering Pi

Activity Overview

Students will measure the circumference and diameter of round objects. They will send in their measurements through TI-Navigator™ and discover the relationship between the circumference and diameter.
Students will note why all points do not lie exactly on the line y=PIx. Then students will use Cabri™ Jr. to measure the circumference and diameter of a circle. Once they send their second set of measurements, students will note why all points created from Cabri Jr. lie exactly on the line y=PIx.

Before the Activity

Students should have access to either the TI-83 or TI-84 family of calculators and the attached document.

During the Activity

Detailed directions for the student and teacher are in the attached document. An application variable that is a constructed circle with diameter is also attached.
I. Have students complete the handout (see attached document). II. Have students send in their data through the TI-Navigator™. III. Plot the students' data in the Activity Center, discuss the relationship between the circumference and diameter, and then plot the line y=PIx. IV. Have students collect data for a constructed circle in Cabri™ Jr. and send in their data through the TI-Navigator. V. Plot the students' data and discuss why the computer-generated data lies exactly on the line.

After the Activity

Review student answers:

  • As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
  • Re-teach concepts as necessary
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    Subject Area
    Math: Geometry: Circles
    Level
    6-8
    9-12
    Activity Time
    60-90 Minutes
    TI Calculator
    TI-83 Plus Family
    TI-84 series
    Other Materials
    • Measuring Tapes
    • Yarn
    • Round Items
    • Ruler
    Resource Types
    Lessons
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