Ratio and proportion
Understanding ratio and proportion in a manufacturing context
This activity is designed to help students understand the concept of ratio and proportion in a manufacturing context. Students will explore how the amounts of ingredients required will change according to the scale of production, giving them a hands-on experience of this key mathematical principle.
It is part of the ‘Engineering Process’ scheme of work, which provides students with an in-depth understanding of some engineering materials and how they are being developed in industry.
This scheme was inspired by the casting process used to make the D3O smart material into a ‘usable’ form. This links to industrial practices such as quality control, standardisation and casting manufacture. It is designed to challenge the students by requiring them to apply the knowledge and understanding of engineering materials through a ‘batch’ production experience.
This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within maths, engineering and design and technology (DT).
Activity: Understanding ratio and proportion in a manufacturing context
The activity begins with a simple cornflour/water mixture demonstration, showing students how changing the ratio of ingredients can result in different properties and characteristics. Students are then encouraged to debate the merits and drawbacks of different technological products, considering how changes in proportions might affect their functionality. This activity not only enhances their understanding of ratio and proportion but also fosters critical thinking and debate skills.
Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan for teaching students about ratios and proportions.
The engineering context
Ratio and proportion play a crucial role in engineering, especially with manufacturing processes. By understanding how changing proportions can affect a product's properties, students will gain insight into the careful planning and precision required in engineering.
Suggested learning outcomes
Upon completion of this activity, students are expected to have a deeper understanding of ratio and proportion, especially in the context of manufacturing. They will learn how altering the proportions of ingredients in a material can affect its properties and characteristics. Furthermore, they will develop critical thinking skills by arguing for and against various technological products, considering aspects such as utility, cost, and environmental impact.
Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources
The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (including the video!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
Download our classroom lesson plan below.
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