Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to apply basic arithmetic skills in a fun and engaging way while learning about the Gateway Arch.

Materials and Prep

• Paper and pencil
• Calculator (optional)
• Printed images or drawings of the Gateway Arch
• Access to a computer or tablet for online research (optional)

Activities

1. Introduction: Show the student images or drawings of the Gateway Arch and briefly explain its significance and location. Ask the student if they have any prior knowledge or questions about the arch.
2. Counting the Arch: Ask the student to count the number of legs or supports the Gateway Arch has. Discuss the significance of having two legs instead of four like a traditional building.
3. Measuring the Arch: Provide the student with a ruler or measuring tape and ask them to measure the height and width of the Gateway Arch. Discuss the concept of length and how it can be measured using different units (inches, feet, etc.).
4. Arch Math Problems: Create simple arithmetic problems related to the Gateway Arch. For example, "If each leg of the arch is 100 inches long, how long are both legs combined?" or "If the arch is 630 feet tall and each leg is 315 feet, how much taller is the arch than each leg?" Encourage the student to solve the problems using mental math or with the help of a calculator.
5. Design Your Own Arch: Ask the student to draw their own version of the Gateway Arch, including the measurements they learned earlier. Encourage creativity and imagination while incorporating the mathematical concepts discussed.

First Grade Talking Points

• "The Gateway Arch is a famous monument located in St. Louis, Missouri."
• "It is made of stainless steel and represents the westward expansion of the United States."
• "The arch has two legs instead of four like most buildings. This makes it unique and special."
• "We can count the number of legs on the arch to see how many there are."
• "We can measure the height and width of the arch to see how tall and wide it is."
• "Math can help us solve problems related to the arch, like adding or subtracting the lengths of its legs."
• "You can use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the arch, just like we measure things in our daily lives."
• "Now it's your turn to be creative! Draw your own version of the Gateway Arch and include the measurements we learned."