This is a Mathematical Modelling Activity by Instructive by Maths Pathway, designed for Level 8 students focused on Measurement and geometry.
Core Task
The activity uses a real-world scenario involving Jimmy’s Window Washing Service to apply Pythagoras’ Theorem (c2=a2+b2).
The goal is to model the placement of a ladder to safely and effectively clean all windows on a three-storey house. Students must calculate the ideal ladder lengths and distances from the house to ensure Jimmy can reach all windows.
Structure
The approximately 100-minute activity is structured in three phases:
- Analyse: Identify the constraints and assumptions (e.g., house height, ladder increments, Jimmy’s reach).
- Model: Systematically use Pythagoras’ theorem to find optimal solutions for cleaning the windows on the first, second, and third storeys.
- Communicate: Evaluate the model and discuss how changing the initial constraints would impact the results.
