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L
E S S O N 5
This is the first of two lessons in which students investigate
the properties of shapes. In these lessons, groups of students use
a loop of string to create shapes with specific properties. They
use clues based on the properties of sides in a shape to explore
the concepts of parallel and equilateral—as well as the relationship
between parallel and equal sides. As an optional final activity,
students explore how changing the lengths of the sides affects other
properties of the shape.
Mathematical
Goals
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Understanding the meaning of the concepts parallel
and equilateral and apply them to create different shapes. |
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Perform visual and mental experiments with shape
transformations. |
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Learn the formal geometric notation
for equal and parallel sides. |
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Devise tests for comparing lengths of sides in
a shape. |
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M
A T E R I A L S
PER
STUDENT
- loop of string (see Preparation)
- Reproducibles R17, R18
(MS Word format)
PER
GROUP
- Measuring sticks or tape measure
P
R E P A R A T I O N
If you plan to do the large-scale version of the string activity,
which is done outside or in an open space of the classroom, cut
8-12 feet of string for each group of students. If you do the small-scale
version, in which students work seated around a table or group or
desks, cut 4-6 feet of string for each group., For both versions,
know the ends of the string to form a large loop.
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