Created by Paul Macdonald
CATAPULTS AND MATHEMATICS
Mathematics can be seen everywhere throughout history and during the Middle ages is no exception.
Overview of Mathematical Lesson Plan :
MATHEMATICS THROUGHOUT HISTORY
Lesson Title: Mathematics of the Middle Ages.
Number of Lessons: 3 lessons
Lesson Length: 45 minutes
Grade: 8
Subject: Math
Rationale: 1. To show the connection between mathematics and medieval history. Especially with respect to the use of
weapons such as the catapult.
2. The goal of these lessons is to integrate mathematics, medieval history (specifically knights and catapults), art,
and ESL pedagogy.
3. To make the students aware of how important language is to mathematics. Most mathematical concepts came
from languages other than English.
Prescribed Learning Outcome(s):
C1 develop and apply the Pythagorean theorem to solve problems
A1 demonstrate an understanding of perfect squares and square roots, concretely, pictorially, and
symbolically (limited to whole numbers)
A2 determine the approximate square root of numbers that are not perfect squares (limited to whole numbers)
A4 demonstrate an understanding of ratio and rate
A5 solve problems that involve rates, ratios, and proportional reasoning
Materials and Resources: (for all 3 lessons)
Created by Paul Macdonald for EDU 467 class.
Overview of Mathematical Lesson Plan :
MATHEMATICS THROUGHOUT HISTORY
Lesson Title: Mathematics of the Middle Ages.
Number of Lessons: 3 lessons
Lesson Length: 45 minutes
Grade: 8
Subject: Math
Rationale: 1. To show the connection between mathematics and medieval history. Especially with respect to the use of
weapons such as the catapult.
2. The goal of these lessons is to integrate mathematics, medieval history (specifically knights and catapults), art,
and ESL pedagogy.
3. To make the students aware of how important language is to mathematics. Most mathematical concepts came
from languages other than English.
Prescribed Learning Outcome(s):
C1 develop and apply the Pythagorean theorem to solve problems
A1 demonstrate an understanding of perfect squares and square roots, concretely, pictorially, and
symbolically (limited to whole numbers)
A2 determine the approximate square root of numbers that are not perfect squares (limited to whole numbers)
A4 demonstrate an understanding of ratio and rate
A5 solve problems that involve rates, ratios, and proportional reasoning
Materials and Resources: (for all 3 lessons)
- popsicle sticks (20 per group of 3 students).
- Masking tape
- elastic/rubber bands
- plastic cups or bottle caps
- computer for youtube vidoes with speakers
- colored markers
- large poster paper
- math cloze handouts
- multiple language triangle handout
- catapult project handout
- M&M's (candy coated chocolate so the chocolate melts in your mouth and not in your hands!)
- 10 different size boxes
Created by Paul Macdonald for EDU 467 class.