๐ Topic Summary
A scale factor is a number used to multiply the dimensions of a shape to enlarge or reduce it. If the scale factor is greater than 1, the shape gets bigger. If it's less than 1 (but greater than 0), the shape gets smaller. Understanding scale factors is crucial for creating accurate drawings, maps, and models. It ensures that the proportions remain the same, even if the size changes.
For example, if you have a square with sides of 2 cm and you apply a scale factor of 3, the new square will have sides of $2 \times 3 = 6$ cm.
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match each term with its definition:
- Term: Scale Factor
- Term: Enlargement
- Term: Reduction
- Term: Proportion
- Term: Similar Figures
- Definition: Figures that have the same shape but different sizes.
- Definition: The ratio of corresponding lengths in similar figures.
- Definition: Making something smaller.
- Definition: The equality of two ratios.
- Definition: Making something bigger.
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Use the following words to fill in the blanks: scale factor, similar, enlargement, reduction, proportion.
When we use a ______ _______ greater than 1, we are creating an ________. If the ______ _______ is less than 1, we are creating a ________. The new figure will be ______ to the original. Maintaining the ______ is crucial.
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are designing a miniature garden. The actual garden bed is 10 feet long and 5 feet wide. If you want to use a scale factor of $\frac{1}{20}$ for your miniature design, what will be the dimensions of your miniature garden bed? Explain your reasoning.