Today’s students are surrounded by technology, most of them their lives revolve around technology even. So what better way to connect with the students then using what they know best, technology! Especially in math, where the majority of students already dislike the subject, it is important to find ways to keep them interested and involved. The attached lesson, Crazy Constructions, does just that. This lesson has students using a program called GeoGebra to perform their geometric constructions. Students start by performing the series of constructions on paper, then they will recreate them on GeoGebra. This is great way for all students, regardless of ability, a chance to complete the assignment and get a pattern/picture as their end result. Some students struggle with using a compass and straight edge, this is where GeoGebra is helpful because it is very user friendly and it will give tips/hints on how to perform the construction. All the tool in GeoGebra are along the top with the hints/tips given as soon as a student selects the tool.
There are even tutorials on the program if students are really struggling. The other benefit to GeoGebra is their instant feedback and results, this allows the students to know right away if they missed something based on the picture being shown on the program. This lesson meets the high school modeling with geometry Common Core State Standard: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.MG.A.3 Apply geometric methods to solve design problems (e.g., designing an object or structure to satisfy physical constraints or minimize cost; working with typographic grid systems based on ratios).
The pictures/patterns students can create on GeoGebra by performing geometric constructions is endless. It is definitely worth giving this lesson a try. Students have enjoyed the fun, interactive way of performing constructions through this lesson; as well as getting to use a computer and technology instead of just their tools and paper.
LessonPlan-crazy-constructions-1dzu4ss
GeoGebra Free Download: http://www.geogebra.org/cms/en/download/