Maths projects 2
Title:
Determining the Number of Tiles Required to Tile a Classroom Floor at Northlea High School
Stage 1: Problem Identification
Statement of the Problem
At Northlea High School, some classroom floors are not tiled or have damaged tiles. This creates an
uncomfortable learning environment and is hard to clean.
Statement of Intent:
The aim of this project is to determine the number of square tiles needed to tile one classroom floor at
Northlea High School using mathematical calculations.
Main Idea:
To apply area concepts to real-life problems by calculating the number of 30cm × 30cm tiles required to
cover a rectangular classroom floor.
Design Specification:
- Measuring tape
- Calculator
- Notebook and pen
- Tile sample (30 cm × 30 cm)
- Formula for area of a rectangle (length × width):
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
In this stage, I investigated how similar problems have been solved in other schools or projects.
1. Manual Measurement and Calculation:
- Most schools measure the classroom length and width, then calculate the area.
- *Success:* Accurate if measurements are correct, but needs good math understanding.
2. Using Tiling Estimation Apps:
- Some projects use mobile apps or software to estimate tiles needed.
- *Success:* Fast and efficient, but needs a smartphone or internet.
3. Using Floor Plans/Blueprints:
- Schools with building plans use them to measure dimensions.
- Success:Accurate, but many schools do not have access to floor plans.
4. Trial and Error Method:
- Lay out sample tiles on a small area and multiply.
- Success: Good for small rooms, but time-consuming and can waste tiles.
These methods helped guide how to approach solving the problem accurately and practically at
Northlea High School.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
Here are four possible solutions for determining the number of tiles, with their advantages and
disadvantages
1. Measuring the Classroom Floor Manually
- Advantages:
1. Accurate if done carefully
2. No cost involved
3. Simple tools like measuring tape used
- Disadvantages:
1. Needs precision or results may be wrong
2. Time-consuming
2. Using School Floor Plan (Blueprint)
- Advantages:
1. Measurements already available
2. Saves time
3. Can be reused for other rooms
-Disadvantages:
1. Blueprint might be outdated
2. Not available in all schools
3. Using Estimation Based on Known Classroom Sizes
- Advantages:
1. Fast method
2. Useful when exact measurement tools are missing
3. Easy for general planning
- Disadvantages:
1. Not accurate
2. May result in shortage or excess tiles
4. Using a Tile Estimation App
- Advantages:
1. Fast and automated
2. Some apps include cost estimates
3. Reduces human error
- Disadvantages:
1. Requires smartphone or internet
2. Some apps may be inaccurate
Stage 4: Choice of Best Idea: Measuring the classroom manually.
Reason:
This method is the most practical and affordable at Northlea High School. Measuring manually using a
tape measure ensures accurate dimensions. It does not require special tools or technology and gives
reliable results when calculations are done correctly.
Stage 5: Development of Chosen Idea
Materials Used:
- Measuring tape
- Calculator
- Pen and notebook
- Tile size: 30 cm × 30 cm (0.3 m × 0.3 m)
Process:
1. Measured the classroom:
- Length = 9 meters
- Width = 7 meters
2. Calculated the area of the floor:
- Area = 9 m × 7 m = 63 m²
3. Calculated the area of one tile:
- Area = 0.3 m × 0.3 m = 0.09 m²
4. Divided floor area by tile area:
- 63 ÷ 0.09 = *700 tiles
5. Added 10% for breakage/wastage:
- 700 × 0.10 = 70 extra tiles
- Total tiles needed =770 tiles
Stage 6: Presentation of Results
*Final Calculations Summary
- Classroom Size:* 9 m × 7 m = 63 m²
- Tile Size:* 0.3 m × 0.3 m = 0.09 m²
- Tiles Needed:
63 ÷ 0.09 = 700 tiles
- Wastage (10%):
700 × 0.10 = 70 tiles
- Total Required:* 700 + 70 = 770 tiles
Result:
To tile one classroom at Northlea High School completely, 770 tilesof size 30 cm × 30 cm are required.
Stage 7: Evaluation and Recommendations
Evaluation
The project was successful. I used accurate measurements and applied mathematical formulas correctly.
The method of manual measurement gave a realistic number of tiles required. The use of a calculator
reduced chances of error, and adding 10% extra helped cover possible breakages.
Challenges Faced:
- Measuring alone was difficult; needed help.
- Rounding decimal values needed care.
- Ensuring tile size matched actual samples.
Recommendations:
- Schools like Northlea High School should use math-based planning before starting construction or
repairs.
- Always include extra tiles to cover cutting and damage.
- Learners can use such real-life maths projects to connect theory to practice.
- Encourage group work in similar projects for efficiency and accuracy.
