Part of Lesson Plan: Land Area Measurements

Activity Overview / Details

This exercise will bring all of the students prior learning on Land Measurement together in one activity. A plot of land has been designated to measure and the students are given a scenario (see Land Area Measurement Exercise Worksheet) to check to see if the plot is one acre in size as advertised. The students will utilize various measurement techniques to complete the task, and compare/contrast the application and efficiency of each.

Some of the forms of land measure are suitable for the students to do individually such as pacing and using the odometer.  Taping will require the students to work in groups of two or more, depending on how many tapes and odometers you have.

You could start this exercise by having all students measure by pacing and then bring everyone back together to compare/contrast results.  Then send the students out in teams to tape or use the odometer to make the same measurements.  The size of the team will depend on how many tapes and odometers you have.  A source for odometers may be your local equipment rental and/or contractors in your area.  100' long pieces of nylon rope (1/4" diameter works well) may substitute for a tape as long as the students don't pull it too tight.

Another way to modify this exercise is to taylor it to specific points you have on campus and then adjust the instructions accordingly.