Force Download: Geometry Fest

Monday, January 30, 2017

Geometry Fest

I just finished up my Geometry Unit with the culminating activity being a Geometry Fest. Stations were set up all around my room, and the students rotated through them. The students had a blast but also learned a ton, too. Ill try to describe each station in enough detail for you to duplicate. Let me know if you have any questions.

Giant 3-D Solids

This was by far the most popular station. The students used inflated windbags and rubber-bands to create giant solids. These can be purchased at Steve Spangler. They are about a dollar, each but you only need a total of 12. If you are careful you can reuse them over and over. Ive used these 3 times and will be able to use them again. I have one student that struggles with most math concepts. The student struggled at every station to understand edges, vertices, and faces. When the student was able to stand inside the 3-D object, it finally clicked. It was awesome to see the light bulb come on.

Secret Structure

Students used pattern blocks to create a structure behind a book or file folder. Then the student described the shape to his/her partner and the other student reconstructed the shape.

Newspaper Shapes

Students used newspapers to create dowels. All you need is newspapers, a few straws (these can be reused), and tape. Then they used the dowels to create geometric solids. I had them cover the structure with paper and create a poster for their solid. Cubes dont work well for this activity. The dowels are just not strong enough to support the shape. There is a learning curve for creating a tight dowel. Watch the video for help.

Shape Recipes

Students filled a shape card and wrote a recipe (pattern blocks used) for their creation.

Polydron Shapes

Students created shapes using polydrons and completed the shape characteristics sheet. If you dont have polydrons, you can have them construct the paper ones. I had them create the three most common ones for 4th grade assessment.

Geometry Vocabulary Game

I created a geometry vocabulary game for the students to play. They spin a homemade spinner then act out, sketch, or define the vocab term. Just cut apart the vocab cards and turn them face down. Students take turns giving the clues for the vocab term. You need a minute timer or stopwatch. The first team to get 10 points wins.

I created a few free printables you might find helpful if you decide to have your own Geometry Fest. Click {HERE} or the picture to grab a copy. I would LOVE to know what you think. Please let me know if you find any mistakes. All the feedback you gave me last time was super helpful.
Stephanie Moorman from Teaching in Room 6 wrote two guest posts all about Geometry for Laura Candler. These ideas would be perfect to incorporate into a Geometry Fest. Click on the links to read about them.
Hands on Geometry Part 1
Hands on Geometry Part 2

Good luck as you continue to create magic in your classroom!

Available link for download