Mat 491 explores motion geometry using such tools such as tracing paper, paperfolding, pattern blocks, cuisenaire rods, geoboards, miras, compass and straightedge constructions along with the Geometer's Sketchpad software program on the computer. The dynamic geometry capabilities of the computer enable us to see visualize the properties of the geometric concepts we study. Children first get their earliest understanding of congruence by tracing a figure and then sliding, turning, or flipping the tracing to see that the it has exactly the same size and shape as the original figure. Reflections provide a natural context in which to study symmetry and isometries that tessellate the plane provide applications that build students' intuition about area. Transformations have been called one of the most important tools for those who use mathematics at all levels of inquiry.
Content is explored using miras, etc.
The study of transformations provides an exciting way for students to study the real world environment about them. You need a loose-leaf notebook or other binder in which to keep all aspects of your quarter's work including homework, lecture notes, etc. Attendance with report from a mathematics conference or an Internet project investigating different internet sites, giving a critique of and preparing a lesson plan based on web searches of approved concepts in geometry is required. More direction will be given for these assignments later. Additional computers are available in the Career Center Bldg 97-128 in the back.