Scale Draw

Stage: 1 Challenge Level: Challenge Level:1

Why do this problem?

This problem begins to introduce children to the idea of scale.

Key questions

How many squares along the top edge of the grid is the point of each ear?
So can you work out where the point will go on a different grid?
How many squares along and down does each eye go?

Possible extension

The questions have deliberately stuck to grids that are in the same proportion as the original grid, but you could ask children how the cat's face would change if, for example, the width stayed the same but the length was halved. This could produce an interesting discussion about why this new cat looks different to ones drawn in a proportionate grid.

Possible support

You may like to use this sheet with the grids drawn for you.

The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice. More information on many of our other activities can be found here.
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