Geometric Room Search
Purpose: This activity can be used as an opener for a geometry class, or as a revisiting activity after students have learned about parallel lines. The activity can be modified for use with any geometric term.
Process: Students enter the room to find “parallel lines” written on the white board. They work in pairs or small groups to find as many physical examples of parallel lines in their classroom as they can in three minutes. Examples: sides of the whiteboard, slats on the back of the chair, rows of desks. At the end of three minutes, have the students count up the number of examples they found and the team with the highest number reads their list to the class. When they have finished their list, other teams add any different examples that they have. Prizes may be awarded for the highest number of examples, the most unique example, etc.
Grade Level: Junior High Geometry
Sample Standard: Identify and describe how geometric figures are used in practical settings. Recognize and apply relationships within and among geometric figures.
Equations on the Floor
Purpose: To use in a junior high or high school algebra class to either begin the class or end the class. Students will match equations to real world situations.
Process: As each student enters the classroom, they are handed a piece of colored paper with one word problem written on it. They find the other four students who have the same colored paper, each with a different word problem. As a team, they will work to find the five matching equations for their problems that are scattered around the room on the floor. Each team will have the same problems to solve, and there will be more equations than word problems. The first group to finish will present their answers to the class and explain their rationale. Other groups may challenge their answers.
Grade Level: Junior High or High School Algebra
Sample Standard: Solve word problems using equations to model real life situations.
These ideas were submitted by Jayne Wingate, math teacher at Cheyenne Central High School in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
