Shape 

Copyright David & Cynthia Thomas, 2009

 

Linear Transformations--Directed Activity: Problem-Solving

                                              

Focus

Using transformations to solve problems.

Technologies

Metric ruler and The Geometers Sketchpad and model 4_Camper.gsp

Background

As a camper is picking berries, he notices that his campfire has spread to the surrounding grass.  He immediately runs to the river to fill his bucket with water for dousing the fire. 

Figure 4.12: The Camper, the Fire, and the River

Tasks

·        In order to minimize the distance (and therefore the time) that the camper must run, what path should he follow in Figure 4.12?   Use transformation geometry to find the path.

·        Justify your solution.