This picture was found at http://web.utk.edu/~wmorgan/Suttree/bridges.htm
A possible math problem that students could solve is “identify all of the different geometric shapes found in this picture and then describe the relationship of the areas.”
This problem would align with the following CCSS:
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.G.B.6
Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, volume and surface area of two- and three-dimensional objects composed of triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, cubes, and right prisms.
To solve the problem, the picture can each be given a copy of the picture where they will use the extra space to solve the problem. Students will be able to identify triangles, squares, rectangles, parallelograms, and more. From there, they will be able to see that all of the triangles are congruent and that the areas are in proportion to one another.
Having the students find geometric shapes in the real world will give them a real world application of the math they are learning. This is extremely important because it answers the most asked question in math, “what is the point of this?” Using this picture will be one way in which you can answer this question.
Cameron, your idea is great! I know that if I were to give this picture problem to the students I work with, they would appreciate it because the problem presented is not full of numbers. Instead, they get to identify different shapes from a cool picture and , as you mentioned, they will not complain about there not being a point to solving the problem.
Cameron, this is a great way to have students realize that math can be found everywhere! This picture can also be used to address the common core standard CCSS.Math.Content.HSG.C.B.5 by having students find the length of the arcs of the bridge.
Cameron, this picture is perfect for this kind of an activity. Your students have tons of possibilities with shapes and their different areas. This problem could also be used to find different ratios between the different shapes. This is good for students to do because there’s not any numbers so they will have to think more about how to find the areas and congruent shapes.