Sixth Graders Explore Geometery on the San Francisco Bay

The sixth graders in Paul Rogers' math classes are currently finishing up the year studying geometry—literally meaning "earth measure"—and, as Mr. Rogers says, “What better way than to actually get out on the earth do some measuring!” Students traveled last Friday to the Hyde Street Pier and hopped aboard the scow schooner Alma to sail in the San Francisco Bay. Immediately after arriving on the ship students learned how to furl the sails, and then worked in teams to heave on the lines. Once the ship was under sail they rotated in teams through four stations: Trick at the Helm and Watch; Tools of Navigation; Weather on the Bay; and Maritime History of San Francisco Bay. "This field trip really gives students a real-life application for not only the math that they are learning, but also for science and social studies as well," Mr. Rogers noted.

In class, students have been studying angles and using geometric tools like the protractor and compass. Mr. Rogers explained, "The students used another kind of compass, to show direction, that directly related to the compass that they used to measure angles with in class." Instructors from the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association pointed out how the block-and-tackles proportionally added to the students' strength in helping them furl the sails. Students threw a "log chip" overboard, timed how long it took to run out a reel of line, and then used a mathematical formula to calculate the ship's speed in "knots." Adds Mr. Rogers, "It would be a shame to be so close to such a wonderful resource as the San Francisco Bay without actually using it. This is a terrific way to measure the earth.” MORE PHOTOS