WILMOT — Wilmot Union High School has introduced a new course this year emphasizing geometry in construction.
In the class, students learn geometry concepts one day, then the next day they apply those concepts though a construction project or activity.
This year’s capstone project will be to build a “tiny bunkhouse” in conjunction with Cornerstone Construction that will be used for foster children during summer camp programs.
The trailer to be used will be delivered once plans are finalized.At this time Wilmot students are working on activities that begin to develop construction skills, employability skills and tool safety, while reinforcing geometry concepts.
Last week students built stairs to apply slope, properties of a triangle, angles and measurement.
From the construction perspective they are learning craftsmanship, measurement accuracy and consistency, teamwork and how to properly use construction tools.
As designed, “Geometry in Construction” is an interdisciplinary course that combines geometry with construction through the building of a significant construction project. The purpose of the course is to provide students an opportunity to learn geometry by directly applying the concepts to a real-world construction project while providing students with a better understanding of both through the combination of the academic and work-world contexts.
The geometry content matches that of the other geometry courses taught in the mathematics department and prepares students for the subsequent Algebra 2 courses.
Students will be exposed to and gain hands-on experience in job site safety and the phases of residential construction. Additional emphasis is given to teamwork, problem-solving and the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education.
Students earn credit for the double-period course co-taught by a math instructor and a construction instructor.
