MATHEMATICS LEARNING AREA

LINKING MATHEMATICS TO THE REAL WORLD

Recently, Year 11 General Mathematics students have been investigating the link between differing body measurements to the actual height of a person. During the investigation students obtained data from 10 students in their class as they chose three body ratios to investigate. Students chose from a range of body lengths that included lengths of feet, forearm, head circumference, wingspan and height along with many other body parts being investigated.

Students plotted three graphs to visually show the relationship of the body part investigated and how this related to the height of a person. From this data, students examined the strength of the relationship between the variables being used. Students then used their calculations to describe the mathematical relationship between the variables. 

Chanel arrived at the following equation: Height(cm) = 26.3 + 0.8 x wingspan (cm)

When the wingspan of Napoleon (the skeleton) was measured it was found to be 177cm.

Hence Chanel estimated the height of Napoleon using her equation.

Predicted Height = 26.3 + 0.8 x 177 = 168cm (This was spot-on.)

Many interesting equations were discovered by students with another example being:

Height(cm) = 107.3 + 7.81 x Length of Middle Finger (cm)

In conclusion, students gained valuable experience in collecting and recording data. This data was then used to investigate possible relationships and then testing their hypothesis (equation) by making an informed prediction. Forensic scientists could use these equations to try to predict the height of a person from a single bone or body part.

Mr Mark Ljubic

Mathematics Teacher

On the Year 11 Snow Camp, Specialist Mathematics students came prepared.