Data analysis techniques are taught in the geometry classroom using the computer as an investigative mathematical tool. Students use data bases and spreadsheets to collect, display and analyze their data. The Geometer's Sketchpad software is used to investigate relationships in geometry.
Students Using The Geometer's Sketchpad:
The Geometer's Sketchpad software provides an electronic chalkboard on the computer which students can use to investigate geometric concepts. The student shown above is investigating the Pythagorean Theorem by analyzing the areas of regular polygons built on the 3 sides, rather than the traditional approach of using squares on all 3 sides.
This young lady has "constructed" medians to locate the centroid of a triangle. She is now checking a variety of measurements to determine which polygons have the same area and/or perimeter.
These colorful polygons have been translated and rotated since they were removed from the tangram - this young man now has to return them to their original positions.
Students still work with basic construction tools, as well as with protractors and rulers. The first step is to decide what to measure.
The computer made the measurements but these two can't seem to agree on what those measurements indicate.
Similar and congruent polygons are color coded once the measuring stage is completed.
Sketchpad Information:
The Geoemter's Sketchpad is a piece of computer software developed and sold by
Key Curriculum Press. It provides an electronic chalkboard for students to use as they investigate geometric concepts.Sketchpad can be used as mathematical tool to assist students in Euclidean geometry, transformation geometry and coordinate geometry. It provides concrete experiences for students as they study the more abstract concepts presented in the course.
Sample Lesson Plans & Activities:
Professional Development / In-Service Training:
Feel free to contact
Mrs. Zahumeny if you have questions about using this software with your students or if you are interested in arranging for Geometer's Sketchpad in-service training for the staff in your school district.Mrs. Zahumeny has been a member of the Key Curriculum Press Professional Development team for Sketchpad since 1993. She has done numerous Sketchpad presentations at mathematics conferences, and has designed a series of workshops lasting from 2 hours to 5 days.
Mrs. Zahumeny is also a presenter for CASIO's Cassiopeia. The Cassiopeia is a hand-held computer that runs Sketchpad, Maple V, and the MRI Graphic Calculator. Check out the
CASIO site for more information.