Overview and Background

Scale & Scale Factor

As part of a thematic STEM unit based around Hot Wheels, students will be making scale models of local businesses out of cardboard. Students will use various methods for gathering the dimensions of local business and scaling them to match the 1:64 scale use by Hot Wheels. When students have built the model they will collect a digital artifact from that business. Students will attach QR codes to the model. The QR codes will point to the digital artifact, thus creating a virtual tour of the community.

Lesson Plan and Activity

Process

Students will use Google maps and Google Earth to determine the actual size of businesses in the community. Once the students know the actual dimensions of their business they will use the scale 1:64 to calculate the dimensions of a scale model. They will then construct a scale model from cardboard and 3D printed connectors. Once the scale model is complete students will use to the scale model to calculate area, and surface area. Then students will research materials and calculate costs to complete several upgrades including re-painting the exterior of the business. Finally students will collect a digital artifact for the business and attach a QR code pointing to the artifact. Once the downtown is complete the class will go on a digital tour by using cell phones to scan the QR codes and view the artifact for that business.

Materials Needed

Cardboard
Paper
Various 3D printed connectors
Cutting tools for cardboard or access to laser engraver

Cardboard Model Stands