In their first unit of study, 8th graders taking Geometry explored the meaning of more than 50 mathematical vocabulary words! They defined, named, and identified points, lines, and planes, as well as line segments and angles.

Students used the midpoint and distance formulas to perform calculations and solve word problems. They also explored translations, reflections, and rotations by graphing transformations on the coordinate plane. In addition, they calculated the surface area and volume of 3D shapes and began a culminating project in which they are creating 2D nets from 3D shapes.

For this project, students identified and collected various prisms and pyramids, then cut along their edges to create 2D nets. With Mr. Casey’s guidance, they used a coping saw, a craft knife, metal shears, and spring-loaded cutting snips to cut open cylindrical containers that could not easily be cut with scissors. Students identified the number of faces, edges, and vertices of each shape and explained whether it was a polyhedron,or not, and why. They also measured the appropriate dimensions of their 3D shapes to calculate surface area and volume, labeling each measurement with the correct units. Finally, they will research real-world examples of professions that use these mathematical skills.

All their calculations and research will be displayed in a science-fair-style exhibition next Wednesday, October 21, in the Math North room, following assembly. Please stop by!