Square Within a Square

Nicole Mosteller

EMAT 6690


Which of the solutions a = 4w or a = w give us the equation for the line that we desire?


Upon investigation of a = 4w, we find that the equation for our line would be

and this equation would have the graph of

Apparently, a = 4w is just an extraneous solution.


Using a = w, we find y = 0 and b =-2.

After substituting these values as well as a = c = z, we find that an equation for our relationship,

results in the desired graph below.


Conclusions:

The investigations made from the Square within a Square problems use ideas that are fundamental

to the curricula most Geometry, Algebra II, and Calculus classes. With modifications, this investigations

can be adapted to pose an interesting and challenging problem for students.


Resources: Thank you to Dr. Red Alford (UGA Math) and Keith Leatham (UGA Math Ed) additional insights.

 

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