Students use fractals to analyze nature. For this geometry lesson, students work in groups using technology and math to communicate. They identify where in the real world fractal can be seen.

High schoolers interpret information and results in context while using words and symbols to generalize patterns. They use symmetry and angle properties of polygons to solve practical problems and identifying invariant properties under...

Students define a square and connect this information to a square root. In this square root lesson, students make a chart listing square numbers and their roots.

Fourth graders use math software and geoboard paper to design basic shapes. They write individual definitions for the geometric shapes based on what they see in the shapes. They apply their background knowledge of the shape as they write...

Trace the links between a variety of math concepts in this far-reaching unit. Ideas that seem very different on the outset (like the distance formula and rigid transformations) come together in very natural and logical ways. This...

Middle and high schoolers explore the concepts of architectural rigidity. They analyze a variety of polygons, and explain why some shapes add more strength to structures than others. The PBS video, "Building Big," is utilized in this plan.

This unit on connecting algebra and geometry covers a number of topics including worksheets on the distance formula, finding the perimeter and area of polynomials, the slope formula, parallel and perpendicular lines, parallelograms,...

Elementary graders discover the concept of fractional pieces of a whole. They investigate the meanings of fractions in everyday life and why they are used. Pupils divide brownies amongst each other to demonstrate the use of fractions...

High schoolers attempt an assessment task requiring them to find the radii of inscribed and circumscribed circles of a right triangle with given dimensions. They then evaluate provided sample responses to consider how to improve...

After completing a task involving examining the ratio of areas of triangles and circles in a given figure, scholars examine sample responses to identify other strategies they could use to solve the problem.

The Hopewell people of the central Ohio Valley used right triangles in the construction of earthworks. Pupils use the Pythagorean Theorem to determine missing dimensions of right triangles used by the Hopewell people. The assessment task...

Students use triangulation method to locate meteorite landing site on the map. In this earth science lesson plan, students participate in a meteorite treasure hunt set up by the teacher. They explain how this method is used by scientists...

An outstanding lesson on triangles awaits your math scholars. Learners focus on the triangle, which is the strongest of all polygons. They see the role that triangles play in the design of buildings, and learn about triangle...

Learners find out the meaning for prefixes used in math vocabulary. By dissecting words used in everyday math, they figure out what the prefix indicates and what the word means. A variety of well-organized worksheets and activities...

Most adults remember learning about the Pythagorean theorem, but they don't all remember how to use it. The emphasis here is on developing an intuitive understanding of how and when to use the theorem. Young mathematicians explore...

Working with imaginary numbers — this is where it gets complex! After exploring the graph of complex numbers, learners simplify them using addition, subtraction, and multiplication. 

Discover the relationship between tangent lines and the tangent function. Class members develop the idea of the tangent function using the unit circle. They create tables of values and explore the domain, range, and end behavior of...

A straightforward approach to teaching complex numbers, this lesson addresses the concepts of complex numbers, polar coordinates, Euler's formula, De moivres Theorem, and more. It includes a practice problems set with odd answers...

This assessment pair goes way beyond simple graphing, factoring and solving polynomial equations, really forcing learners to investigate the math ideas behind the calculations. Short and to-the-point questions build on one another,...

Graph A goes with equation C, but table B. The short assessment task requires class members to match graphs with their corresponding tables, equations, and verbalized rules. Pupils then provide explanations on the process they used to...

Take flight with a fun activity focused on graphing data on a coordinate plane. As learners study the data for Granny's hot-air balloon trip, including the time of day and the distance of the balloon from the ground, they practice...

Let's paint the town equal parts yellow and violet, or simply brown. Pupils calculate the amount of blue and red paint needed to make six quarts of brown paint. Individuals then explain how they determined the percentage of the brown...

Many problems in life have more than one possible solution, and the same is true for advanced mathematics. Scholars solve seven problems that all have at least two solutions. Then three higher-level thinking questions challenge them to...

Tenth graders are introduced to the cell and some of its parts. Through the use of video, 10th graders see animal and plants cells and their parts. They learn terms used to explain the cell.