GEOMETRY LESSON - When Will I Ever Use It? Putt-Putt Golf

Abstract

 The real world is math. Often times, mathematics transpires in places we do not considerand can take for granted. Looking back, many people can recall memories of attending an amusementpark. Playing putt-putt or miniature golf is a focal point of such a venue. Why? Because it is fun! It ischallenging! There is an attraction of striking a ball through a miniature obstacle course that enticespeople to play. However, does anyone ever think of the work behind creating such an alluring obstaclecourse? What kind of design and engineering goes into building these collections of blockades andbarriers? Think about all the geometry that might be used in creating a putting hole. First andforemost, angles come to mind. The more challenging putting holes are typically accompanied byangles, which range from acute to obtuse. In addition to these angles, putting holes are complementedby lines. The lines serve the purpose of guiding the ball in the desired path. Next, we begin to think about the bumpers: those treacherous and conniving bumpers that are implemented only to obstructour passageways to success. Bumpers come in all shapes and forms. So, what three-dimensional shapescan someone put into their golf course to make it more appealing? Upon gathering our thoughts, webegin to recognize the mathematical principles that surround a common activity such as putt-putt.Through remembrance, understanding, analysis, and creation we will be able to construct a golfcourse?a golf course brought about by math into the real world.