Why do this
problem?
This is a classic, the historical reference to Archimedes is
educational, and the problem should be part the education
of every student of mathematics. To do this
problem requires only very simple geometry and it
introduces the idea of approximation by finding an upper
and lower bounds, and refining the approximation by taking a
series of values where, in this case, we use smaller and
smaller edges, or more and more sides for the polygons. In
addition this problem is a valuable pre-calculus experience as
it uses the idea of a limiting process involving smaller and
smaller ' bits'.
Possible Approach
First ask everyone to work out the perimeters of the two
squares in the diagram. Then have a class discussion about what
this tells us about how large the length of the circumference
of a circle can be and how small. Discuss the history of this
method with reference to Archimedes and introduce the idea that
it is a method for finding the value of $\ pi$. Pose the
problem: "How would you find the value of $\pi$ if it was not
already known?"
Introduce the idea of an upper bound and a
lower bound for pi and raise the question about how we
might improve these bounds to get closer to the value of pi.
Then ask the class to repeat the exercise using circumscribed
and inscribed hexagons.and compare results.
Suggest your students researchArchimedes method for finding
$\pi$ and other methods of approximating $\pi$ on the internet
for themselves. Discuss the difficulties of calculation, in
particular finding square roots, without modern calculating
aids and refer to the problem Archimedes and Numerical
Roots.
Key Questions
Can you find the perimeter of the square (or other regular
polygon) circumscribing the circle?
Can you find the perimeter of the square (or other
regular polygon) inscribed inside the circle?
What can you say about the lengths of the perimeters of these
two polygons and the length of the circumference of the
circle?
Knowing the circumference is $2\pi r$ how does this help you
find a lower and an upper bound for $\pi$.
Possible
extension
See Archimedes and
Numerical Roots.
Possible
support
Read Eureka.