Week 12: Geometry

 Big Ideas

This week we looked at the concept, skills and strategies in geometry. Geometry can be defined as, “An organised, logical and coherent system for the study of shape, space and measurement” (Jamieson-Proctor, 2021). It involves the study of 1D (lines), 2D (planes) & 3D (solid) shapes. Many mathematical ideas can be represented in geometric ways. Such as aspects of fractions, multiplication and spatial patterns that lead to algebraic expressions (Reys et al., 2020). Geometry can be applied to creative pursuits, as well, and is used quite often in art. 

As a teacher, I need to ensure that my students understand and can apply the 5 skills of geometry, and understand that geometry is more than just 2D shapes.



Concept, Skill or Strategy

5 skills of geometry

1. Visualising – the ability to look at a shape and recognise what it is, and the attributes it possesses. Visual skills include recognising similarities and differences in shapes, interpreting diagrams and sketches of shapes, and completing a geometric pattern.

2. Communication – students need to be encouraged to talk and write about shapes and patterns and to describe figures and relationships as accurately as possible 

3. Drawing and modelling – students need to be able to draw and model 2D and 3D shapes, with correct angles and lines of symmetry

4. Thinking and reasoning – This includes logical skills such as classifying, analysing and seeking similarities and differences, reasoning and synthesising.

5. Applying Geometric Concepts and Knowledge – students are able to apply geometry to real-life experiences outside the classroom



Misconception

In geometry, there can sometimes me misconceptions involving triangles, especially with naming them incorrectly, and getting confused between congruent and similar triangles (Topper, 2010). As a teacher, I need to make sure I am covering the teaching of the 5 skills of geometry, and helping my students apply this to all shapes, with a large focus on triangles as there are many different types.



ACARA:

Algebra (patterns) is first seen in the Australian curriculum in foundation year (ACMMG006)

Strand: Measurement and geometry

Sub-strand: Using units of measurement


(ACARA, 2021)

Scootle

This resource is a great introduction when connecting 2D shapes to children’s everyday lives. It identifies shapes children could see in their bedrooms, houses, and outside in nature, and classifies the number of sides of each 2D shape.

(PBS LearningMedia, 2021)

Teaching Resource

This is an idea for an easy, hands on activity that can be set up for young children. By simply painting some paddle pop sticks, children can explore 2D shapes independently.


(Rycroft, 2021)


References


ACARA. (2021). Mathematics. https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/f-10-curriculum/mathematics/

Jamieson-Proctor, R. (2021). EDMA241/262. Mathematics Learning and Teaching 1: Week 11 Part 1 (slide 15). Australian Catholic University

PBS LearningMedia. (2021). Shapes all around me: Everyday learning. https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/5aed5fc0-2b74-4d01-b80a-a78276e4ab0d/everyday-math-shapes-all-around-me/

Reys, R., Lindquist, M., Lambdin, D., Smith, N., Rogers, A., Cooke, A., Ewing, B., & West. J. (2020). Helping children learn Mathematics (3rd Australian ed.). Milton: John Wiley & Sons.

Rycroft, E. (2021). Geometry and shapes for kids: Activities that captivate. https://proudtobeprimary.com/geometry-shapes-activities-for-kids/

Topper. (2010). Common mistakes and how to avoid. http://im.rediff.com/getahead/2010/feb/15geometry.pdf


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