Tessellation Exploration!
Tessellation Exploration!
Grade Level:
7–12
Student Level:
High School
What is the difference between a regular tessellation and a semi-pure tessellation? Where does the term tessellation originate, and what is the sum of angles around one vertex in a tessellation of the plane by polygons? Treat your class to an art-filled math experience using museum objects and patterned surfaces to explore different math concepts about tessellations and polygons.
Students are introduced to a mummy case, an Islamic prayer niche, an Escher print, and other works while learning to identify various tessellations using a viewing guide included in the Teacher Information Packet, that accompanies the videoconference.
Program Format:
- Discuss definition of tessellations, and examples students have seen (tiled floors, quilts, etc).
- Define math terminology, such as polygon, regular polygon, and regular tessellation.
- Introduce works from the museum with examples of regular tessellations.
- Students work on math viewing guide throughout the program.
- Discuss regular vs. non-regular tessellations, and look at non-regular examples, including M.C. Escher's work.
- View and discuss examples of semi-regular and demi-regular tessellations.
Objectives:
- Students will learn how different cultures have used math and tessellations in their work.
- Students will learn the difference between the many types of tessellations.
- Students will see how math can be used to create art.