Lesson Planning Sheet Title: Similar Lengths Learning Objectives: By the end of the lesson: All students should

be able to calculate the length scale factor for two similar shapes. Most students should be able to calculate missing dimensions in similar shapes using the length scale factor. Some students should be able to calculate missing lengths in compound shapes by considering their similar components. Keywords: Similar, Congruent, Scale Factor, Length Learning Activities Starter/Introduction Students review the difference between similarity and congruence by matching their corresponding diagrams. To extend this further the class could describe the transformation to match congruent shapes and the scale factor for the similar ones. Students could work in pairs to promote discussion. Have answers presented on miniwhiteboards for assessment and feedback. Development Discuss with the class a suitable definition for similar shapes and how this is different to congruent shapes. The length scale factor could be presented in the form of an 1 : n ratio or as a multiplier by matching up corresponding sides. In the case of figure 1 the ratio would be 4cm : 12cm which simplifies to 1 : 3. Resources: Mini-whiteboards Interactive Geogebra file.

Figure 1

The second example uses vertically opposite angles to produce two similar shapes with different orientations. The interactive Geogebra file can be used to illustrate how the two are similar. Have the students attempt the final problem on the second slide on mini-whiteboards for assessment and feedback.

Figure 2

By this point the class should be able to work through the problems on the third slide independently. Feedback solutions throughout to maintain pace. Plenary The plenary is intended to assess the progress made throughout the lesson and embed the concept of the scale factor being constant between the edges of a shape. Ideally, pose the problem to the class as it is with no additional guidance since there are multiple ways of attempting this problem. Have the solutions presented on miniwhiteboards at the end so that alternative approaches can be discussed. Differentiation More able: Students could investigate how the length scale factor affects the area of similar shapes. Less Able Students may need to work with integer scale factors rather than fractional ones.