Math Example--Ratios, Proportions, and Percents--Solving Proportions: Example 27

Topic

Ratios, Proportions, and Percents

Description

This example demonstrates solving a proportion problem using similar parallelograms. Two parallelograms are shown, with the smaller one having sides of 8 and 18, and the larger one having sides of 20 and x. The problem requires finding the length of side x by setting up a proportion: 8 / 18 = 20 / x. Solving this equation leads to x = 45.

Understanding proportions in geometric contexts, particularly with parallelograms, is a fundamental skill in mathematics. This collection of examples helps teach the topic by presenting various scenarios where proportions are applied to solve real-world problems, allowing students to see the practical applications of these mathematical concepts in areas such as architecture, engineering, and design.

Exposure to multiple worked-out examples is crucial for students to fully grasp proportions and their applications. Each example reinforces the core concept while introducing different geometric scenarios, helping students develop problem-solving skills and recognize patterns across various types of proportion problems involving parallelograms and other geometric figures.

Teacher's Script: "In this example, we're using similar parallelograms to set up a proportion. Notice how the corresponding sides of the parallelograms form our ratio. Let's solve this step-by-step, showing you how to apply proportion concepts to geometric problems. This skill will be valuable in many areas of mathematics, including scaling in design, understanding area relationships, and solving problems in physics and engineering where parallelogram shapes are common."

For a complete collection of math examples related to Solving Proportions click on this link: Math Examples: Solving Proportions Collection.