Lesson Plan
Golden Ratio Dig Lesson Plan
Students will pan for “gold” and sand, calculate gold-to-sand ratios, express them as fractions and percentages, and compare their findings to build proportional reasoning.
This Gold Rush-themed lesson deepens understanding of ratios, fractions, and percentages through a hands-on activity, making abstract concepts concrete and engaging for 6th graders.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Activation
5 minutes
Step 2
Demonstration
5 minutes
Step 3
Student Panning Activity
15 minutes
Step 4
Group Discussion & Analysis
3 minutes
Step 5
Assessment & Reflection
2 minutes
Slide Deck
Golden Ratio Dig!
What Is a Ratio?
The Gold Rush & Ratios
Demonstration Steps
Your Panning Activity
Reflect & Share
Worksheet
