Superlesson
Project 5-1
Algebra
Chapter 5
Analyzing Linear Functions
and Their Graphs
The Great Pyramids have fascinated people for generations. You can use the Great Pyramids to investigate the mathematical concept of slope. Throughout this activity, you will be writing slope using decimals rather than the fractions you are used to seeing. Just keep in mind that nothing changes: Slope is still rise over run or vertical distance over horizontal distance.
Part A, Exploring Slope
1. Try building a scale model at the Great Pyramid Web site. If the scaled height is 4.9 cm, estimate the slope of the side of the pyramid. Explain how you figured out the answer.
Part B, Rate of Change
2. Refer to the pyramid model from 1. Imagine that you are looking at the pyramid from the side. Assign coordinates to the vertex of the pyramid and to the bottom left side of the base of one face of the pyramid. Write your coordinates in scaled form or centimeters.
Part C, The Geometry of Slope
3. Using your model of the pyramid, make a conjecture about the four faces of the pyramid. Explain your conjecture.
Part D, Making Connections
7. Using information from the Scale Model of the Great Pyramid Web page, create a scale model to represent Khafre and Menkaure.
8. Find the slope of the sides of Khafre and Menkaure.
9. Of the three pyramids, which one is the steepest? Which one is the
flattest? Explain how you know.