In this Cyberchase media gallery, learn about ratio and proportion and how to use an algebraic shortcut to solve proportion problems. In the accompanying classroom activity, students play a game called the "Pom-Pom Nose Push," in which they collect data and determine the ratio of time to distance. This resource is part of the Math at the Core: Middle School Collection.
In this video from Cyberchase, Harry describes ratio as a fixed relationship between two quantities and then provides examples to explain the concept further.
Students learn about proportions by using map scales to estimate travel distances. They use an understanding of ratios to calculate travel time using an estimated speed.
In this TV 411 activity, students watch a video clip in which two NBA stars plan a trip from Atlanta to the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA. They learn to use map scales to estimate travel distances. They also learn to use ratios to calculate travel time using an estimated speed.
Investigate a situation where math plays an important role in art. This video focuses on the equation to calculate the correct weights and distances of the components necessary to balance a mobile. This video was submitted through the Innovation Math Challenge, a contest open to professional and nonprofessional producers.
Be sure to view the activity, The Art of Math - Activity (found under Support Materials for Teachers), to use with the video.
Think about the relationships between the weight and size of similar objects. This interactive exercise focuses on using critical thinking skills and estimation skills to predict how many mini and regular gummy bears it takes to have the same mass as a super bear and then requires using data to complete calculations to see if your prediction was accurate.
This resource is part of the Math at the Core: Middle School collection.
In this infographic, learn about the impact of drought on agriculture in California. In the accompanying classroom activity, students use the information on one of the infographic graphs to compare the share of production value to the share of water usage for different crops and consider the implications for the choice of crops to grow in times of drought. To get the most from this lesson, students should be comfortable interpreting percentages and double bar graphs and familiar with ratios and rates.
In this lesson, students will learn how to determine the price per unit to help make decisions when comparing products. This lesson will help students understand the concept of a unit rate and help improve their financial literacy.
In this interactive activity, students will be introduced to rates as a type of ratio that compares, unlike units. Students will be led through steps to find an equivalent fraction before they compare rates. There are teaching activities as well as practice activities available. A handout that reviews the steps taught during the activity can be printed. After utilizing this resource, the students can complete the short quiz to assess their understanding.
This is a free resource from PBS. Teachers will need to click on Procedure to access the directions for the activity. Note: Sohu/African/African-American Culture has been substituted for Drum-Beating, Foot-Stomping African.
There are three options for this lesson, depending on class needs and time available: