Circles aren't functions, so how is it possible to write the equation for a circle? Pupils first develop the equation of a circle through application of the Pythagorean Theorem. The lesson then provides an exercise set for learners to...

Learners explore the concept of the coordinate plane. In this coordinate plane lesson, students graph points on the coordinate plane using an applet. Learners graph functions using an applet. Students play a Maze Game where they must...

Take your study of coordinates online! Groups of students complete an online graphing introduction, plotting the points of virtual objects. A worksheet is included for extra practice.

Students explore how some tilings can display rotational and/or reflection symmetry in addition to translational symmetry. Students demonstrate how these tilings can be generated using either one of the symmetry concepts and Zome System...

Students analyze symmetries of quadrilateral tilings and discover how various types of symmetries, used alone or in combination, can generate the same pattern in more than one way.

Seventh graders are introduced to making inferences about artifacts. Using a grid system, they locate the artifacts and determine where they originated from. They use this information to make conclusions about the way people lived...

Students place two plane mirrors at different angles to experiment with reflection. They make kaleidoscopes and periscopes.

Students experiment with reflections of two plane mirrors placed at a 90 degree angle to see what will be reflected.

Geometers explore the concept of tessellations. They use a tessellation applet to manipulate shapes and design their own tessellation using the applet.

Students investigate the law of reflection by using mirrors. For this physics lesson, students operate a robot using IR controllers. They explain the path of light as it reflects through a surface.

Students explore geometry by participating in a pattern identification activity. In this tetrominoes instructional activity, students define the characteristics of congruent and symmetrical shapes. Students practice translating shapes...

Fifth graders use formal geometric language to describe polygons (and other shapes) that will tessellate the plane and those that will not. Students make generalizations about the characteristics of a polygon (or other shape) that will...

Sixth graders investigate tessellations and their origins. Students trace triangles to form a tessellation. They measure the angle of equilateral triangles. Students locate the line of symmetry, they create geometric squares,...

Ninth graders study optics and the law of reflection.  In this optical images lesson students use a laser and conceptualize the law of reflection.

Students create tessellations. In this geometry lesson, students use polygons to create different patterns by rotation. They identify the reasons for polygons to create the type of tessellation it does.

Taking the notion of symmetry to the next level, this looks at combining rotation and translation symmetry to build spiral symmetry in three dimensions. Using the Zome modeling system and an instructor’s guidance, geometers try to build...

Students identify and construct figures that tessellate. They investigate which regular polygons tessellate and how to modify them to make other tessellating figures. Students explore how naturally occurring tessellations have been...