PATTERNS USING CONGRUENT SHAPES

Agnes Kalos, Ishmael Kunias, Margaret Norman, Solomon Titus Yuss

INTRODUCTION:

The focus of this lesson is on geometry. Geometry basically deals with patterns, shapes and lines. It was used traditionally by the Egyptians and other ancient countries in helping to design buildings and to create designs them. In Papua New Guinea our people do use geometry in their traditional art work without realizing that they are using it. However, their understanding of this art work is simply making patterns.

Culturally, in Papua new Guinea societies, patterns come in different styles and forms but do not vary very much. It is of great importance to different ethnic groups because it represents the people’s beliefs, feelings and creativity in the form of art. It gives them pride and respect for their tradition and culture.

The main focus is to relate this idea of traditional geometry to teaching geometry to a grade eight (8) class. The reason for focusing on the latter is to help students have a clear understanding or perspective of the topic before actually learning the new concept.

Traditionally, in Papua New Guinea societies, patterns are formed by repeated shapes clustered together or arranged systematically. This is simply using congruent shapes to make or create patterns. Therefore, it is suitable in incorporate into the teaching of a grade eight mathematics class the topic “Patterns using congruent shapes” to ease the complexity of the topic or to develop their understanding using concrete examples.

LESSON PLAN:

TOPIC: GEOMETRY

SUB-TOPIC: PATTERNS USING CONGRUENT SHAPES

Objectives: By the end of this lesson students should be able to;

1) Use the idea of traditional patterns using congruent shapes and construct patterns that are found in their area;

2) Explain the importance and describe materials needed to make these patterns traditionally;

3) Understand the basic importance of patterns using congruent shapes in today’s mathematics.

Introduction:

Teacher activities:
- State the topic (patterns using congruent shapes)
- Define congruent shapes (shapes that are equal in sizes and shapes but can be in different positions)
- State the objectives of the lesson.

Student activities:
- Pay attention
- Give examples of congruent shapes

Body:

Teacher activities.
- Ask questions
- Can you think of any patterns in your society that use congruent shapes?
- Show some concrete examples
- What do they do to make these patterns?
- Group students into their province or regional groups.
- Give an exercise – (Draw patterns from their area which used congruent shapes, discuss their importance to their societies and the materials needed to create these patterns.

Student activities:
- Think of congruent shapes that form patterns in their villages
- Name the materials used
- Do the activity.

Conclusion:

- Students present their activity’s report
- Teacher stresses the importance of congruent shapes.

A) Beautify the environment by creating designs
B) Helps in modern construction (building) of complicated frame works.