Core Skills Analysis
Math
The student calculated the total cost of constructing enclosures, amenities, and security features for thirty different dinosaur species, converting in‑game currency values into a budget spreadsheet. They compared the projected expenses of each dinosaur’s habitat requirements, using multiplication and addition to ensure the overall spend remained within the park’s financial limit. By adjusting the number of attractions and selecting cost‑effective species, the student applied ratio and proportion concepts to achieve a balanced five‑star rating. Throughout the process they recorded and evaluated data, refining estimates through iterative trial and error.
Tips
To deepen the learning, have the student design a real‑world park budget using a spreadsheet program, incorporating taxes and unexpected expenses. Next, challenge them to create a scaled floor plan on graph paper, applying geometry to calculate enclosure areas and visitor pathways. Finally, organize a classroom “dinosaur market” where students trade species cards using play money, reinforcing concepts of supply, demand, and profit margins.
Book Recommendations
- The Way Things Work by David Macaulay: A visual guide to engineering principles that helps kids understand how complex systems like theme parks are built and operated.
- The Everything Kids' Money Book by Brette Sember: Introduces budgeting, saving, and financial decision‑making through fun activities and real‑life scenarios.
- Jurassic Park: The Ultimate Visual History by James Mottram: Combines stunning dinosaur artwork with facts, inspiring curiosity about species traits that affect habitat planning.
Learning Standards
- ACMNA124 – Apply financial mathematics to calculate total costs and maintain a budget.
- ACMNA118 – Use fractions and decimals when converting in‑game currency and cost percentages.
- ACMNA123 – Apply ratio and proportion to balance dinosaur species diversity with park rating.
- ACMNA122 – Interpret and present data using tables and graphs to evaluate park performance.
Try This Next
- Create a detailed budget worksheet listing each dinosaur’s enclosure cost, food cost, and projected revenue.
- Design a bar graph comparing actual versus projected expenses and earnings for the park.