Lesson 2: Scaling Up and Scaling Down: The Grid Method
Duration of Days: 2
Lesson Objective
Students will use the grid method to enlarge or reduce an image while maintaining perfect proportions.
How does a grid help prevent distortion?
If we double the grid size, what happens to the area of the drawing?
Proportion, Ratio, Enlargement (2:1), Reduction (1:2), Distortion.
CT CTE.AR-D.2.1: Demonstrate the use of scales and proportions.
Students are given a simple drawing on a 0.25-inch grid. They must transfer it to a 0.5-inch grid (enlargement) and a 0.125-inch grid (reduction) point-by-point.
Purpose: To build the mathematical foundation of scaling before using mechanical tools.
DOK Level: 2 (Application).
Use "high-contrast" grids for students with visual processing needs; allow students to color-code grid coordinates.
The "Icon Scale" project—successfully scaling a geometric logo at two different ratios.
Pre-printed grid worksheets, calipers.