Estimating African Elephant Populations (Part 2)

In the second part of a series of articles on counting African elephant populations, Fuentes presents the final scenario, noting that the mathematics involved is somewhat more sophisticated than that required for last month's activities. In the third and final scenario, students return to the Central African Republic and use sample indirect counts of elephant droppings to estimate the elephant population there. The mathematics for this method involves concepts in statistics and calculus. Students must also use right-triangle trigonometry, convert units, determine area, and calculate rates. Scenario 3 can be taught as a stand-alone unit connecting mathematics, science, political science, economics, history, and geography. It could also be used in conjunction with the two scenarios described in last month's "Activities for Students."