Designing the Optimal Soda Can

 Project Components:

(1) Choose a partner to work with and divide the following tasks so that each of you has equal responsibilities to ensure successful completion of the task.

(2) Research soda can history and design.  The following links will help get you started as you study the design evolution of the modern-day soda can.  Some areas for consideration include shape, design and metal used in the container.

http://www.gono.com/history/history.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beverage_can
http://home.comcast.net/~collectiblesodacans/Cokepg1.htm
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/73124

(3) Read attachments for mathematical procedures and how to set up Equation Editor.  The following sites may help to answer questions as you determine the correct calculation methods.

http://www.math.ucdavis.edu/~kouba/CalcOneDIRECTORY/maxmindirectory/MaxMin.html

http://www.analyzemath.com/calculus/Problems/optimize_area.html

http://www.unixl.com/dir/maths_and_engineering/calculus/

(4) Investigate the best approach for organizing your data.  Visual communication is often the best method for conveying your ideas and conjectures.  Choose appropriate internet resources that will enhance the goal of your task.  It is expected that your final report will include graphs, tables, charts and mathematical work.

http://nces.ed.gov/nceskids/createagraph/
http://www.homeschoolmath.net/math_resources_4.php#graphing
http://www.meadinkent.co.uk/excel.htm
http://www.mathematicshelpcentral.com/graph_paper.htm

(5) After interpreting your results construct an online survey.  Consider how different soda can designs might be received by the public and how these designs may affect manufacturer and consumer costs.  You should offer at least three choices.  Incorporate survey responses in your final analysis.

http://freeonlinesurveys.com/
http://www.surveymonkey.com/

(6) Prepare a written analysis that defines your choice for the optimal soda can design and justify your position using data from your investigation.  Be sure to appropriately cite all Internet sources.

http://www.classroom.com/community/connection/howto/citeresources.jhtml

(7) For assessment include a copy of the mathematical procedure page.  You should also include a title page and list of your resources.  Place your final report in clear report binder.