Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to apply geometric principles to wilderness first aid scenarios, such as determining the best angles for constructing a makeshift shelter or estimating distances for signaling help.

Materials and Prep

Materials: Pen/pencil, paper, ruler, protractor, compass (or a makeshift compass using a magnet and a piece of string).

Prior Knowledge: Understanding of basic geometric concepts such as angles, triangles, and measurements.

Activities

1. Angle Estimation: Go outside and identify natural shelters or potential first aid scenarios. Use the protractor to estimate the angles of various surfaces and discuss how these angles can affect shelter construction or safe positioning.

2. Signal Distance Calculation: Practice using the compass to estimate the distance to a visible landmark. Discuss how this skill can be useful in wilderness first aid situations to signal for help or navigate to safety.

3. Triangle Construction: Learn how to construct a triangle using a ruler and protractor. Discuss the importance of triangulation in wilderness first aid for determining locations or distances.

Ninth Grade Talking Points

• "In wilderness first aid, understanding angles can help us create stable shelters. For example, a wider angle between two tree branches can provide better support for a makeshift shelter."
• "Using a compass to estimate distance is crucial in wilderness first aid. It helps us determine how far we are from help or how far we need to travel to reach safety."
• "Triangles are not just a math concept. In wilderness first aid, we can use triangulation to pinpoint our location or estimate distances without fancy equipment."