Exploring a Complex Space-Filling Shape

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In this activity, learners build a paper stellated rhombic dodecahedron, a three-dimensional 12-pointed star. Learners use pyramid patterns to assemble tri-pyramids and then tape eight tri-pyramids together to form a stellated rhombic dodecahedron. Learners also calculate the volume of the complex shape. [Activity is publicly available through a web crawler capture on Archive.org.]

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
      • Solid Geometry
    • Measurement
      • Units of Measurement
      • Polygons
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Problem Solving
  • Physical Sciences
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Volume and Density
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Exploratorium, 2010

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation