Geometry

8 Fifteen-Minute Programs
Grade Level: 7-12
Curriculum Area: Mathematics

Geometric concepts are introduced through problem-solving techniques using full-color animation and three-dimensional "moving" illustrations. Key concepts are presented in a step-by-step process moving from the concrete to the abstract level based on real problems in everyday life.

Teacher Guide: 21 pages; includes objectives, vocabulary and student worksheets.

1. Angles 14:03
Using stills, animation and computer generated graphics, the program presents an introduction to various types of measurements (length, time, area, volume, weight, and temperature) and discusses the importance of standardized units. The evolution of length of measurement is presented from the cubit to the present metric system.

2. Geometric Constructions 10:47
The program illustrates with computer generated graphics how to bisect angles and line segments. The construction of congruent triangles and perpendicular lines are also presented. The compass and protractor are also featured and their roles in the above processes are demonstrated.

3. Triangles 11:25
The program presents examples of various geometric shapes and how they are used by man and nature to make stronger building units. Computer graphics illustrate how to construct and copy various types of triangles.

4. Perimeter, Circumference, and Pi 12:59
The program presents a history of Pi showing how its value is calculated starting in 500 B. C. through the current modern computer calculated value of today. Computer generated graphics illustrate and define circumference, area, and perimeter and show how to calculate same for various geometric shapes.

5. Area of Common Geometric Figures 13:44
The program apples the formula of area to finding the area of a swimming pool with appropriate graphics to illustrate the application. Graphics and models are used to illustrate how the formula for area is derived for a regular polygon and eventually for a circle.

6. Rectangular Solids 9:54
The videotape starts with a description and a definition of the five regular polyhedrons and continues with how volume influences the shape of containers we use in everyday activities. Computer generated graphics are used to define and explain volumes of various shapes.

7. Prisms and Cones 13:51
The program "leads" the viewer through an illustration of formulas used to find the areas of prisms, cylinders, cones, and pyramids. The pyramid of Kehi is used as the axis for discussing the application of various volume and area formulas.

8. Spheres 10:36
The program poses the problem of building a container that will have the largest volume and use the least amount of material. A discussion of spheres in relation to a given perimeter is presented to introduce the relationship of volume to perimeter and shape.