Geometry and Spatial Relations: Sidewalk Capers

In this math lesson, learners use a variety of manipulatives to explore spatial relationships of squares and their transformations. Learners create a square with 36 square tiles and determine that by sliding several of the pieces both vertically and horizontally, they form an irregular shape that can be tessellated. Learners are given a variety of curved shapes and encouraged to use tape and scissors to reconfigure their shape back into a square. Learners are surprised to learn that all of the different shapes have the same area. Given a variety of measurement tools, learners are also asked to estimate the number of squares tiles (24" x 24”) needed to cover an assigned section of the sidewalk. Finally, learners create a pattern from the square and tessellate it on the sidewalk using chalk.