Activities to Teach Students the Properties of Polygons
![](https://dev.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/maxresdefault-660x400.jpg)
Polygons are a fascinating aspect of geometry and are usually taught in middle school. A polygon is a closed plane figure formed by three or more straight sides. The properties of these figures are important to understand in order to make relevant calculations. However, these properties can often be challenging for students to grasp in mere theoretical study. Activities provide a way to engage students and make the learning process more active and fun. Here are several ideas for activities that can engage students and teach them more about polygon properties.
1. Constructing Polygons
Giving students the chance to construct their own polygons is one way to help them understand the properties of the shapes. Students can grab a ruler and a protractor, or even better, use a ruler app on their tablets or smartphones, to construct regular polygons. After they complete each shape, the teacher can assist in naming each one, identifying the number of sides and interior angles of each polygon.
2. Measuring Angles
This activity helps students to gain accuracy in their measurement skills and to better comprehend the angles in polygons. The teacher will provide the students with a variety of polygon shapes. The students will then use protractors or smartphone apps to measure all of the angles in each polygon. The students should then be grouped and encouraged to compare their findings with their peers to see if they match. After comparing results, the teacher can discuss the properties of each polygon and explore important details such as the sum of the interior angles.
3. Using Geoboards
Geoboards are a type of manipulative that can be used to teach students about geometric shapes, specifically polygons. Students can use rubber bands or string to construct various polygons on the geoboard. As they work, they will have a better grasp on how the various shapes are constructed and how different types of polygons are formed.
4. Identifying Polygons
A great way to start any lesson on polygons is to develop a game or activity in which students are given pictures of polygons without their names or descriptions. Then, students are given a quiz to match each polygon with its name. This simple task will help students to develop their reasoning skills and practice identifying different types of polygons based on their similarities and differences.
5. Project-Based Learning
If the teacher’s objective is to evaluate the ongoing learning of students, a project-based approach could be a suitable choice. Project-based learning gets students engaged in research and allows them to showcase their knowledge-building creativity around pertinent topics. The teacher can set a project for students to explore the various polygons and how their properties make unique shapes in the real world. Students can present their projects with information about each shape and the role geometric shapes play in our world.
In conclusion, teaching the properties of polygons is important for students to be successful in geometry. However, mere theoretical study is often not enough to engage students with their learning, nor to foster understanding. These activities are effective ways to engage students, encourage them to think critically and to identify the properties of various polygons. By using hands-on, interactive activities, students will be better equipped to understand the concepts related to polygons, leading to better learning outcomes.