Lesson 2: Using Measuring Instruments

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Math 10C Module 1 Lesson 2

When you are measuring shapes, sometimes you have to get creative. For example, if you want to measure the circumference of a circle but you only have a tape measure and a piece of string, what can you do?

Try This

Complete the following in your course folder (binder).

TT1: First, draw a circle on a piece of paper by tracing around the bottom of a mug or around a CD.

Next, use a tape measure or a ruler to measure the diameter of the circle.

Now use a formula to determine the circumference of the circle. (Hint: You reviewed this formula in the Launch section.)

Watch and Listen

Now that you have tried to measure the diameter of a circle that you have drawn, watch the video clip titled “Measuring a Non-Linear Path.”

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Try This

Complete the following in your course folder (binder).

TT2: Use the technique shown in the video to measure the circumference of the circle that you drew in TT 1. Compare your answer with the one obtained in TT 1. Which method do you think is more accurate? Why?

TT3: Describe one advantage for each method.

TT4: Describe one drawback for each method.

TT5: Which method would you use to measure the circumference of a tree trunk? Why?

TT6: How could you measure the diameter of a tree trunk without chopping the tree down?

Use the link below to check your answers from Try This 1 - 6.

Possible TT1 - 6 Solutions