Overview | The Math | The Lesson

The Lesson

The lesson consists of three parts. The first part is the most important. The second part leans towards abstract geometry, while the third has a more artistic flavor (they are both optional).

1. Basic Constructions
2. Handout-based Shapes Activity (optional)
3. A Math Mural (optional)

Basic Constructions

1. Show the class how to do the five basic constructions (as described in The Math) on paper affixed to cardboard or foamboard. The larger your drawings, the better they will look.
   • Straight Line
   • Circle
   • Ellipse
   • Right Angle
   • Point at Same Distance from two Given Points
   Tip: For drawing circles, tie a small loop at each end of a length of string, push a pin into the board through one loop, and put a pencil through the other loop. For drawing ellipses, tie a length of string to make a big loop, push two pins into the board, and loop the string around them.
2. Emphasize that finding a point at the same distance from two given points (fifth construction) will be of great help for drawing more complex shapes.
3. Distribute string, board, paper, pencils, scissors, pushpins, and straight edges.
4. Ask students to practice the five basic constructions.

Shapes Activity

1. Distribute the activity handout.
2. Separate the class into small groups to work on drawing the shapes in the handout. Have a look at these proposed solutions.

A Math Mural

Encourage art with math! The possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:

• Have students create a Math Mural on chart or butcher paper by gluing cut-out shapes drawn on their boards. Use all kinds of decorating supplies.
• The class could draw a chalk Math Mural on the school yard. Substitute students' feet for the pushpins.
• If your school grows a garden, have fun designing circular and elliptical flower and vegetable beds. Use stakes instead of pushpins.

Download the Lesson Kit (pdf)