Education Technology


Math TODAY - Snow is as High as an Elephant

Activity Overview

The USA TODAY Infograph "When the snow is as high as an elephant" helps us understand snow from a more practical point of view. Students will answer several geometry questions about the different components of the graphic.

Before the Activity

See the attached Teacher Edition PDF file for notes and guidelines for this activity. The Technology Guide PDF file includes step-by-step calculator instructions with screen shots.

If you are using the TI-Navigator Classroom Learning System™, see the TI-Navigator Basic Skills Guide PDF file for information on how the system can be integrated into your activity.

During the Activity

Students will:

  • Draw a shape on cardboard and calculate its area.
  • Measure snow depths and use the area of their base to calculate the volume of the snow.
  • Calculate the pounds per cubic foot of snow.
  • Use class data to make estimates and predictions.


  • Directions:
  • Distribute the Student Edition PDF file to your class.
  • Follow the activity procedures outlined in the student document.
  • You may use the Transparency PDF file to display a large image of the USA TODAY graphic during the activity.
  • After the Activity

    Distribute the assessment questions or send the attached LearningCheck™ assessment to your class to gauge student understanding of the concepts presented in the activity.

    TI-73 Explorer™ user must use the assessment questions found in the Student handout. These assessment questions can also be used by other calculators user that do not have access to the LearningCheck™ application.