Laser laws project
Driving question: How can we test Pythagorean theorem and the laws of reflection?
For this scimatics unit we studied the Pythagorean theorem and the laws of reflection. For this project in a group we had to create a shape with laser and mirrors that features a triangle, with a 90 degree angle. We used the laser laws to predict where the laser will reflect so we could place the mirrors there creating a star shape.
Laser without the smoke ⬇️
At the end of the project on of my classmate Sylas brought in his smoke machine in so we could see our laser beam illuminated.
Photo of laser & of smoke machine ⬇️
Project Mind map⬇️
Curricular competency
Questioning and predicting: Demonstrate a sustained intellectual curiosity about a scientific topic or problem of personal interest
I demonstrated a sustained intellectual curiosity by using all my time in scimatics efficiently to work together with my group and to focus on the assigned work. I also demonstrated this skill by using all my time in LAC to work on my science and math work books. My group and I also tried to extend on the project by creating a more complex star shape with 8 triangles and 6 right angles.
Communicating and Representing: Represent mathematical ideas in concrete, pictorial, and symbolic forms
I showed this competency by using my comprehension of the Pythagorean theorem (A2+B2=C2) to find the right triangles within the star. After that I used a protractor to measure to see if there were any right angles.
Applying and innovating: Co-operatively design projects
In my group we decided to create a star shape. It turned out to be surprisingly difficult to draw a star that has right angles in it and looks proportional. We first tired to draw a star then measure the angles but there where no 90degree angles. We finally got a star that had 6 right angles but the star looked a bit odd but we decided to keep it because it had 6 right angled triangles. Overall I think everyone in our group did an even amount of work and I’m very happy with our final outcome. Thank you Patrick, Sabrina, Faith and Jocelyn for being a great group.