Lesson 1

Lesson 1: Triangles

 

Focus

 

Take a look around and you will notice that triangles are everywhere! Watch the video “Exploring and Solving Triangles.”

 

 

Triangles can be found in many structures, including bridges, frameworks of buildings, scaffolding, roof trusses, and playground swings.

 

Can you think of other structures that use triangles within their designs? Why are triangles commonly used? Are triangles used for aesthetics, structural support, or both?

 

As a carpenter, steelworker, or any other tradesperson working on a structure such as the one shown, it is important to understand the properties of triangles. Triangles are not only incorporated into a structure’s design for visual appeal, but also for the strengthening of the structure.

 

Lesson Outcomes

 

At the end of this lesson you will be able to

• solve problems that involve triangles

Lesson Question

 

You will investigate the following question:

• How can the properties of triangles be used to help solve problems?

Assessment

 

Your assessment may be based on a combination of the following tasks:

• completion of the Lesson 1 Assignment (Download the Lesson 1 Assignment and save it in your course folder now.)
  
• course folder submissions from Try This and Share activities
  
• additions to Glossary Terms and Formula Sheet
  
• work under Project Connection

Self-Check activities are for your own use. You can compare your answers to the suggested answers to see if you are on track. If you have difficulty with concepts or calculations, contact your teacher.

 

Remember that the questions and activities you will encounter provide you with the practice and feedback you need to successfully complete this course. You should complete all questions and place your responses in your course folder. Your teacher may wish to view your work to check on your progress and to see if you need help.

 

Materials and Equipment

• calculator