As a math teacher, one of the most challenging subjects to teach is geometry. Geometric concepts, particularly surface area, can be challenging for many students to understand. However, there are plenty of interactive activities that can help make the subject more engaging and easier to comprehend. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best activities to teach students about the surface area of cubes and rectangular prisms.
1. Building With Blocks
Building with blocks is a fun and interactive activity that’s perfect for teaching students about the surface area of cubes and rectangular prisms. Providing blocks of different sizes and shapes, challenge students to construct cubes and rectangular prisms of varying dimensions. Once the students have completed constructing their shapes, have them determine the surface area of each block they built.
2. Stickers
Another interactive and hands-on activity that can teach students about the surface area of cubes and rectangular prisms is to use stickers. Using stickers of different shapes and sizes, students can measure and cover the surface area of different blocks to get an idea of how much surface area is covered by each sticker. This activity can be scaled down or up depending on the level of familiarity of the students with surface area concepts.
3. Math Applications
One more insightful activity to teach surface area concepts is through math problems or equations. The teacher can give mathematical equations for the surface area of different shapes, and students need to apply the equation to solve the surface area. This activity helps students gain familiarity with critical concepts and introduces them to problem-solving techniques that they can apply in real-life scenarios.
4. Virtual Reality
Lastly, the teacher can use technology to teach surface area concepts. Virtual reality computer software is useful in introducing students to different shapes and their features. The software provides models of cubes and rectangular prisms, allowing students to interact with and observe these shapes from different viewpoints. The teacher can also use practical examples to enable students to see how surface area calculation relates to real-life situations.
In conclusion, teaching geometry and surface area of cubes and rectangular prisms can be more engaging using these interactive activities that help students learn more effectively and appreciate the subject. Through these four activities, students can develop truancy with the geometric concepts, promote reasoning and problem-solving abilities, and attain a deeper knowledge of surface area concepts.
