Project DescriptionIn this math-based project, we explored what it takes to run your own contracting business. We learned what it takes to develop a product based around a specific clients needs. This will be done all while being introduced to the many ways math is used in the real business world, as well as the proper use and safety of many tools. Some of the topics we covered are:
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What We Did |
For our contracting project, we first had to get into groups of 7. We came up with the name HARMonies because our client was Mr. Harms. Next, we met with our client to see what he wanted us to build, which was a tool bench. We took measurements to make sure it would fit in the available space. After that, we made a prototype using cardboard, hot glue guns, and xacto knives. With this, we made a project proposal packet involving the project description, blueprints, google sketchup blueprints, project timeline, project estimate, and the approval of estimate. Then, Mr. Harms signed the approval of estimate to show he agreed to our design and cost. Slightly after, Mr. Linnik bought our wood to start constructing the project.
To begin constructing, we took our pieces of wood and put labels on them to show what pieces it was going to be cut into. Then we built the inside of the table, the legs, the table top, the slide out step, and the pegboard in order. We used a drill, screws, a driver, wood glue, crown staples, casters, and clamps/supports to piece together the table. After this, we had to deliver it. It was too big to fit through the door, so we took the slide in step out, carried it down the stairs (while the bench was in the elevator), then put the bench together again in the classroom. I am very proud of what I did in this project because our client seemed happy about his outcome. |
Reflection |
A challenge we had was figuring out what wood was ours in the class' stack of materials because we had so much and other groups’ wood got mixed up with ours. Some of our wood went missing, so we re-designed the bench completely. We changed from drawers, to a slide out step stool. Our client was still satisfied with this because the bench was tall, and it was in his classroom for students to use. So at the same time, it became kid- friendly.
We learned and practiced teamwork when making and contracting.Next, how to work with tools. Some tools I learned to use are the drill, driver, chop-saw, and jig-saw. I also learned how to make blueprints, and what to do as if we were selling an actual piece of work. I liked constructing because it was the hand-on learning. I also liked gluing, drilling, and screwing. I felt I became strong in drilling and screwing, mostly because I did it so much. I was also strong at taking certain leadership from time to time. I also am strong in crafty areas, which was partially needed in this project for the prototype and building. If the next class were to do this project again next year, we could have the kids make an object for each other, in pairs, and exchange items. But other than that, I really don't know, because this project was out of the ordinary and not something I would do everyday. |