Geometry: Tangram Puzzle Cat


'Tangram' Puzzle 'Cat'

Curator: Jamie Bailey



The is applet allows for students to practice problem solving skills while using geometric shapes.

Grade Level: grades 1 and up
PSSM Content Standard: Geometric Shapes and problem solving skills
CCSSM Content Standard: CCSS.Math.Content.1.G.A.1 Distinguish between defining attributes (e.g., triangles are closed and three-sided) versus non-defining attributes (e.g., color, orientation, overall size); build and draw shapes to possess defining attributes.
Math Content: Geometric Shapes; problem solving skills



Evaluation

What is being learned? What mathematics is the focus of the activity/technology? Is relational or instrumental understanding emphasized?

The students are learning problem solving skills using various geometric shapes to build various pictures.

How does learning take place? What are the underlying assumptions (explicit or implicit) about the nature of learning?

The underline assumption is students have a working understanding of geometric shapes.  Regardless of age, students are developing the same set of skills.

What role does technology play? What advantages or disadvantages does the technology hold for this role? What unique contribution does the technology make in facilitating learning?

The technology allows for students to practice multiple puzzles with quick progression between the patterns.

How does it fit within existing school curriculum? (e.g., is it intended to supplement or supplant existing curriculum? Is it intended to enhance the learning of something already central to the curriculum or some new set of understandings or competencies?)

This fits with existing curriculum by allow students to problem solve using manipulatives to discover through exploration and discovery.  Students will use these as manipulatives to discover how various shapes can be compiled to create larger shapes (example: 3 triangles can make a trapezoid).  This also aids helping students understand and apply fractions in hands-on exploration.

How does the technology fit or interact with the social context of learning? (e.g., Are computers used by individuals or groups? Does the technology/activity support collaboration or individual work? What sorts of interaction does the technology facilitate or hinder?)

Technology fits into the interaction by having students work individually.  The students are also able to use a tablet that would allow them to move around the room and add an element of interaction among their peers.  Students can help each other with an inquiry method to help each other out.

How are important differences among learners taken into account?

Student learning styles are taken into account by allowing students to practice an inquiry method for discovery. Students who quickly figure out the pattern are able to help those that are struggling.

What do teachers and learners need to know? What demands are placed on teachers and other "users"? What knowledge is needed? What knowledge supports does the innovation provide (e.g., skills in using particular kinds of technology)?

The teacher needs to understand the basic principles on tangrams.  While not all pictures have the same solution, the same principles apply and having a working understanding of tangrams is important.

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