Lesson 1: Reading the Ruler: Scales for Different Industries
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will differentiate between an Architect’s scale (fractions) and an Engineer’s scale (decimals) and demonstrate how to read both accurately.
Why can’t we just use a standard 12-inch ruler for a skyscraper?
How do "feet and inches" translate to a triangular scale?
Graduation, Architect’s Scale, Engineer’s Scale, Fraction vs. Decimal.
CT CADD.02.01: Demonstrate the use of common drawing/measuring instruments.
Students explore the triangular scale. They will practice finding specific lengths on various faces to understand how large objects are shrunk to fit on paper.
Purpose: To master the primary physical tool used in manual drafting.
DOK Level: 1 (Recall/Reproduction).
Provide "Large Format" scale handouts where markings are magnified; use colored tape to mark the specific scale face the class is working on.
A "Scale Scavenger Hunt" where students must find and mark five specific lengths on a scale.
Triangular Architect and Engineer scales, practice worksheets.