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Subject

Math, Science & Technology

Assessment

Student calculation of the amperage usage in a sample house is evaluated on the basis of specified rubric.

Author

Anthony George, Attica Senior High School

Source

George, Anthony. “Electrician's Math.” In Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Resource Guide with Core Curriculum. New York State Department of Education, 197.

Duration

1 Week

Description

Objective:

Students will use formulas to calculate the number of amperes a typical house could use.

Activity:

• Students, working in groups or as a class, determine the typical electrical devices found in a home. (Don't forget the lights!)
• Students determine the wattage rating of each device. Students check the nameplates of appliances, contact local appliance stores, or use the Internet to gather the specific information.
• Students use the formula, Wattage = Voltage X Ampere, to calculate the amount of current for each appliance.
• The information is to be included in a spreadsheet. Students calculate the total number of amperes.
• Students discuss the concerns of an electrician (e.g., regarding whether or not all devices would be used simultaneously).
• Discuss the most efficient way (mathematically) to reduce use of electricity.

Materials/Resources

• Computer
• Spreadsheet program (e.g., Excel)
• Calculator

Comments/Modifications

Discuss what would change if the voltage were increased from 110v to 220v, as the case is in Europe.

Related Academic Standards

New York State

CDOS.C.2.1.A Students demonstrate the integration and application of academic and occupational skills in their school learning, work, and personal lives.

CDOS.C.2.1.B Students use academic knowledge and skills in an occupational context, and demonstrate the application of these skills by using a variety of communication techniques (e.g., sign language, pictures, videos, reports, and technology).

CDOS.C.2.1.C Students research, interpret, analyze, and evaluate information and experiences as related to academic knowledge and technical skills when completing a career plan.

CDOS.C.3a.BS.1.A Students use a combination of techniques to read or listen to complex information and analyze what they hear or read; convey information confidently and coherently in written or oral form; and analyze and solve mathematical problems requiring use of multiple computational skills.

CDOS.C.3a.TS.2.A Students demonstrate the ability to organize and process information and apply skills in new ways.

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