Activity 2.3: ratios of facilities per population

Introduction

In this activity, students examine the concept of ratios using numerical data about where they live. Using maps, students find the ratios of a range of facilities to the number of people who live in the area.

Resources

Introduction to ratios: this video can be used to support student understanding of ratios

• Activity stepsShow details
  1. Have the class discuss the concept of ratios and the types of facilities that can be found in a local area.
  2. Have students investigate three locations: the one where they live, one site that is demographically similar, and one site that is demographically different.
  3. Students should find the ratio per population for each of the following facilities:
     • schools: primary and secondary
     • hospitals and health care centres
     • major public transport stops for trains, trams and buses
     • parks and other recreation and sporting facilities and clubs.
  4. In small groups, have students create a series of graphs using the ratios that they generated as a product of their research.
  5. Facilitate a whole-class discussion and have students reflect on their findings.
  6. Focusing questions could include:
     • How do you think these ratios compare to other areas in Australia?
     • Are you surprised by any of the findings?
     • What could be some of the reasons that there are differences between different locations?