Lesson Plan: Volume from known cross-sections Activity
Finding the volume of a solid with known cross-sections is a classic application of integration in calculus. While the computations are quite simple, Students often struggle with this type of problem because visualizing the solid and setting up the integral can be quite challenging at first.
This activity that guides students through the process of creating a model for this type of problem. Students explore volumes with known cross-sections by choosing a base region, an orientation of the cross-sections, and the shape of the cross sections. They then cut cross-sections out of cardboard and glue them together to create the solid.
If you use the activity, please let me know how it goes in the comments. Suggestions for improvements are also welcome!