Contextualization
Mathematics is a very important and comprehensive discipline that is present in almost everything around us. In this project, we will focus on a specific but quite relevant topic: the Properties of Shapes.
Within geometry, a subarea of mathematics, we study a wide range of shapes and their properties. However, before we start exploring the different shapes, it is essential to understand what polygons are. A polygon is a two-dimensional shape composed of a series of points (or vertices) connected by straight lines (or sides). Polygons can have various sides, from three (like a triangle) to infinity (like a circle).
Polygons are found in many places around us. Whether it's the structure of a building, the shape of a cell phone, or the frame of a bicycle, all these objects have polygonal shapes. Therefore, learning about them helps us understand the structures and designs of many objects around us.
In the real world, polygons are an integral part of many professions. Architects, engineers, graphic artists, and even programmers use knowledge about these shapes to create, design, and build. For example, video game designers often use polygons to create their characters and scenarios.
Therefore, learning about polygons and their properties is not only fundamental for an in-depth study of mathematics but also provides a fundamental understanding of many aspects of the world around us.
Here are some resources you can use to base and deepen your knowledge on the topic:
Remember, collaboration is key in this project. Take the opportunity to learn together!
Practical Activity
Activity Title: “Building the World of Polygons”
Project Objective
This project aims to help students understand and apply the concept of polygons and their properties, promoting the construction of real or imaginary objects using polygons.
Project Description and Step-by-Step
Students (in groups of 3 to 5 people) will design and assemble a model using only polygons. This work will be divided into stages:
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Research and Planning (1-2 hours): The group should research and decide what type of scenario they want to create for their model (it can be a city, a forest, a classroom, etc). They should identify the polygons present in these scenarios and how they can be represented in the model.
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Project Drawing (2-3 hours): Based on their research, the group should sketch what the model will look like. At this point, they should start thinking about the properties of the polygons they will use in their model.
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Model Construction (5-6 hours): With the help of a ruler, pencils, cardboard (or similar material), glue, and scissors, the students will together build the model. Each constructed polygon should be identified with the polygon's name, number of sides, and angles.
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Presentation and Evaluation (1-2 hours): Each group will present their model to the class, identifying out loud the polygons used and their properties, explaining their design choices, and how they contributed to achieving the final goal.
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Written Report (1-2 hours): After completing the practical activity, each group should produce a written report, containing:
a. Introduction: Contextualizing the theme, the relevance and application of polygons in the real world, and the purpose of this project.
b. Development: Describing the theory behind polygons, explaining the activity in detail, presenting the methodology used, and finally, presenting and discussing the results obtained.
c. Conclusion: Summarizing the main points of the project, explaining what was learned, and drawing conclusions about the project.
d. Bibliography: Indicating the sources used for the project.
Required Materials
- Cardboard or similar material for constructing the polygons
- Pencils and pens
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Glue
- Internet for research
Throughout this process, you will be developing various important skills, such as time management, collaboration, problem-solving, as well as understanding and applying theoretical concepts of mathematics.
Good luck and have fun!
