Kenya 2015, Week 1, Camp Day 4

Team 1: Week One

Math/Science Camp: Day 4

Daily Biblical Theme:  God’s Compass and the directions He has left us. 

Secondary Camp

This was to be the last day of camp and we had already begun cutting some of the activities due to time.  We hoped to complete some at a later point in our stay but that would not happen.  For this last day of camp we focused on team work, following directions, and indirect measurement.  We opened with the Helium stick activity.  Teams of 8-10 were to stand on two sides of a 10’ pole.  They were to hold out their pointer fingers and allow the pole to rest on them.  With all team members fingers touching the pole they were to lower it to the ground.  It isn’t as easy as it sounds; note the smiles in the faces during the challenge.

The Kenyan teachers test their team work abilities.

Alvin decided to play limbo after his team found success lowering the pole.

After the opener team leaders found and recorded the height of each team member, campers were challenged to use proportions to solve similar triangles, and some math concepts were reviewed in preparation for the final activity. 

The day would end with teams using indirect measurement techniques to determine the height of the water tank on the roof of the dorm. Teams were each provided metric measuring tapes, scientific calculators, mirrors, view tubes, clipboards, and instruction handouts to be used for the activity.  The Kenyan teachers were encouraged to go out with the campers and assist in the experiment.  They joyfully obliged and enjoyed the challenge.  

While most teams went outside to complete the activity, a team of the highest level secondary students remained behind to learn another method of indirect measurement using a clinometer made of a straw and a plumb line.  

As usual the Kenyans use their imaginations to come up with another way to find the height of the water tower.  Do NOT try this at home.

Items found in purple in where supplied by donations.  Thanks to all that contributed!!