
David F. answered 03/12/20
Educator in Early Literacy & Fundamental Reading Skills
Daniel enjoyed going for a run everyday after school. He had recently learned about measuring the circumference of a circle during math class, and was interested in knowing the distance he covered each day; in order to take an accurate measurement, Daniel decided he would run in a circular motion at a local track to help him practice his calculating skills. His choice was not only a practical one, but also an aesthetic one. He appreciated the track because it was outdoors; the beautiful sights and sounds of nature would keep him motivated during his pursuit. Moreover, public restrooms and water fountains were readily available.
But before he began his periodic motion, Daniel had to decide what units of measurement he would use to determine the length of his daily scuttle. He decided to employ the si units, because they are the standard in a majority of the world's countries. Inspired by his mathematical adventure, Daniel was hoping to run a kilometer per day, and as any dedicated athlete he would slowly increase his stamina. However, the plan was only just beginning to unfold; he had yet to measure the track. Daniel had forgotten about the next arithmetic step.
Finally, He was able to remember his teacher's instructions. Daniel had to complete one last step in order to begin his routine motion; it was absolutely imperative that he verify the track's diameter, which is necessary to complete the algorithm. Consequently, Daniel moved in a rectilinear motion from the northern point on the track to the southern one, and obtained the diameter. The measurement read, "100 meters." Daniel multiplied it by pi and discovered his answer; he was running 314 meters on a day to day basis. That was less than what he had intended.
Disappointed to find that he was not reaching his goal, Daniel modified his routine and over time he tripled his laps. He was thankful that mathematics provided him with the tools necessary to achieve his goals; Daniel could not wait to find out what new and exciting things he would learn at school. Certainly, his teacher would make sure that it would be a useful skill, and Daniel could try to use it in his next enterprise. "What could be next?" he wondered. "I hope it's conversions! I would be able to change my metric measurement into an imperial one..." He exclaimed, as he continued to speculate on his way home, ready for another lesson.