Lesson 2: Mapping a Sphere
Duration of Days: 4.5
Lesson Objective
Students will apply precision measurement to 1/8" to create and cut identical tissue paper "gores" using a master template.
1. How do you turn flat sheets of paper into a round, 3D object?
2. Why does an error at the seam result in a massive failure in the final balloon?
Gore, Template, Surface Area, Symmetry, Circumference.
Use geometric shapes to describe objects. CT CTE ENG.02.04: Create sketches and/or drawings.
Students are introduced to the "Gore." They must measure the dimensions of their tissue paper and trace the template with high precision. They will calculate the total surface area of the balloon's "skin."
Purpose: To teach the engineering reality that 3D objects are manufactured from 2D parts.
DOK Level: Level 3 (Strategic Thinking).
Pre-marked "Safe-Cut" lines on templates for students with fine motor challenges; provide templates in high-contrast colors.
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Assessment of Understanding: A "Precision Check": The teacher verifies that four stacked gores are identical within a 1/8 tolerance before the student is allowed to begin gluing.
Tissue paper, 1/8" rulers, custom gore templates, cardboard, scissors