Discusses the use of flexible straws for teaching properties of figures and families of shapes. Describes a way to make various two- or three-dimensional geometric shapes. Lists eight advantages of the method. (YP)

Uses pentominoes to examine the concepts of congruence, similarity, transformations, tessellations, networks, perimeter, area, and volume in a problem-solving, cooperative learning environment. Discusses the construction of three-dimensional pentominoes. (YP)

Using the seasons in the science classroom increases student observation skills as they focus on subtle differences such as shades of color and differences in structures. In this article, the author presents a variety of activities that can help students identify and demonstrate patterns and changes in leaf or plant development. The ability to…

Combining both the Western perspective of creativity as productivity and the Eastern perspective of creativity as enlightenment, a Program for Enlightened and Productive Creativity (PEPC) for teaching inquiry was devised. The PEPC describes stages through which a student is guided to solve a problem using increasingly complex observation, inquiry,…

Provides four activities asking students to observe and classify star patterns and to identify polygons and continuous paths while observing similarities and differences. Presents the objectives, directions, extensions, answers, references, and worksheet for each activity. (YP)

The production and application of images based on fractal geometry are described. Discussed are fractal language groups, fractal image coding, and fractal dialects. Implications for these applications of geometry to mathematics education are suggested. (CW)

Quilt-making is presented as an activity that helps elementary school children recognize and appreciate geometry in their world while developing their problem-solving skills. Students choose an appropriate pattern and cooperatively make the quilt. Related measurement questions and problems are provided. (MDH)

Discusses six activities from concrete to abstract related to geometric patterns. The stages of the activities are familiarization, starting point, walkabout, do-it-yourself, and investigation. Provides pictures of diverse patterns. (YP)

Discusses the golden ratio and how to make golden triangles using recursive Logo programs. Presents some outputs of the Penrose tile patterns. (YP)

Presents four lesson plans centered around artworks involving Japanese clothing. Instructional materials include color plates of a 19th century print showing women's clothing, two beautifully handcrafted coats, and a coverlet in kimono form. The lesson plans discuss Japanese clothing, art, society, and culture. (MJP)