Finding the Slope of Staircases for Math Projects

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the slope of staircases for a math project. The user initially measured the total run as 124 inches and the total rise as 96 inches, leading to a calculated slope of 24/31. However, confusion arose regarding the accuracy of this slope due to the height of individual steps being only 7 inches. A suggestion was made to measure the width and height of each step separately and perform an error analysis to address any discrepancies in measurements.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry concepts, specifically slope calculation.
  • Ability to measure dimensions accurately using a tape measure.
  • Familiarity with error analysis techniques in mathematical projects.
  • Knowledge of how to reduce fractions for slope representation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate slope using the formula: slope = rise/run.
  • Learn about error analysis methods to evaluate measurement discrepancies.
  • Explore the implications of measuring individual steps versus the whole staircase.
  • Investigate common mathematical tools for visualizing slope, such as graphing software.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students working on math projects involving geometry, particularly those focused on calculating slopes, as well as educators teaching these concepts. It also aids anyone interested in understanding practical applications of slope in real-world scenarios.

totallyclueless
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Please help me w/ my Math project!

OK. Since no one was answering my last question, I have a new one. Its about my math project.
I have to find the slope of several staircases.
I decided to start with my own.
I feel really stupid saying this, but I have no idea how to go about finding the slope of my staircase. I can do it easily on paper, with graphs and stuff, but somehow I just can't figure this out. I feel really dumb asking a question like this on a board like this...but I'm desperate.
So far, i have measured the total run as 124" and total rise as 96". Then, I did the equation to find slope and I got 96/124 which I reduced to 24/31. Is this the slope? It didn't seem right at all to me, considering each step is only 7 inches high. I don't know if I'm completely off or did anything right...please help me! Walk me thru it!
 
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IMO you won't get the same answer measuring the whole staircase and one step. Due to the fact that hte staircase is actually made in pieces.

measure the w & h of each step and sum the w's and sum the h's if you don't get the same answer as the measurement whole then do an "error" analysis and explain why you think this discrepancy resulted...this will show the teacher that you analysed the problem.
 
Ok...
what does IMO mean? Just wondering
 
OK thank you it worked.
 

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