Geometry: Tiling the Plaza

In this math lesson, learners arrange pattern blocks to create tessellations and to explore geometric patterns. Learners first explore making patterns with a variety of pattern blocks. They next engage in experiments of making tile designs using only one shape by rotating that shape around a point. Finally, they are faced with the situation of entering a contest for creating the best tile design for the new plaza using these geometric shapes. Learners are placed into groups and are told to use only the blocks with equal sides and equal angles to create a patterned tile design. Each group makes a tile design and learners vote for the best design.