The following activities are designed to lead the students to an elementary understanding of the concept of fractal dimension. They should be done in order.
None require access to technology other than a hand held calculator.
Students study the concept of Euclidean dimension and scale. Let's find some fractal dimensions Students study the dimension of the curves, surfaces and volumes studied in Lesson 1. 3 Nature is Fractal Students learn about finding the fractal dimension of coastlines and rivers. 4 Debriefing Activity Students work together to generate a formal definition of fractal, and look for similarities and differences in those they have studied thus far. Extensions Have students search the web for other examples of fractals in biology and nature.