Explore how mathematicians can optimize delivery routes using geometry and trigonometry.

The storyline in this STEM kit has students working through a series of activities to solve the problem of how drones can deliver medicines to remote African villages in the most effective way using mathematical modeling.

Mathematical Practices include: 1) reason abstractly and quantitatively; 2) construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others; 3) use appropriate tools strategically; 4) make sense of problems and persevere in solving them; 5) model with mathematics; 6) attend to precision; 7) construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others; 8) look for and make use of structure; 8) look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning

Colorado Mathematical Content Standards: Disciplinary Core Ideas

  • 7.G.A: Geometry Draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationships between them.
  • 7.G.B: Geometry Solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume.
  • 8.G.A: Geometry Understand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry software.
  • HS.G-CO.D: Congruence Make geometric constructions.
  • HS.G-SRT.A: Similarity, Right Triangles, and Trigonometry Understand similarity in terms of similarity transformations.
  • HS.G-SRT.C: Similarity, Right Triangles, and Trigonometry Define trigonometric ratios and solve problems involving right triangles.
  • HS.G-SRT.D: Similarity, Right Triangles, and Trigonometry Apply trigonometry to general triangles.
  • HS.G-MG.A: Modeling with Geometry Apply geometric concepts in modeling situations.

Class Requirements

  • 8th grade and up
  • Moderate teacher preparation
  • One to two class periods
  • 30 students or less working in pairs
  • Science notebooks
  • Sink
  • Paper towels

Operation Optimization STEM Kit Resources

  • Operation Optimization STEM Kit Use Instructions (complete teacher guide – coming soon)
  • Science Notebook Template (for use in lieu of Science Notebooks)
  • Science Notebook Template (Spanish version)
  • Operation Optimization STEM Kit Instruction Booklet
    (available upon request – email name and school to Dr. Andrew Warnock)

Borrowing Operation Optimization STEM Kits

There is no charge to educators who wish to borrow any of our STEM kits. We appreciate applications be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of the desired use date. The Loan Application Form require you to confirm your email address before it will be sent to the NSEOC – so once you click submit, check your email (including the junk folder)! You should also get a copy of the form for your records via email, if you don’t, please contact Jordan Conley (jordan.conley@colostate.edu).

  • For educators in the immediate area of Fort Collins (i.e.: Greeley, Loveland, Ault, Windsor, Johnstown, etc.), we ask that you select the local pick-up option on the Loan Application Form.
  • For educators in Colorado outside of the immediate Fort Collins area, please select the local pick-up option on the Loan Application Form and the kits will be shipped to you.
  • Educator Feedback Survey – must be completed after returning kits to the NSEOC and before another kit can be requested