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Dotty Grids - an Opportunity for Classroom Exploration

Dotty grids - an opportunity for classroom exploration

Exploration based on the simple environment of a dotty grid can lead students to important mathematical insights about polygons, area, coordinates, and vectors. In this feature, we suggest fruitful starting points to explore with your students, together with advice on how the ideas can be developed in the classroom. 

Dotty Grids in the Classroom 
Age 11 to 18

This article suggests ways in which a dotty grid can be used in the classroom as an environment for rich exploration

Drawing Polygons 
Age 11 to 16

I wonder which polygons we can draw on dotty paper...

Exploring Area 
Age 11 to 16

I wonder what we can find out about the areas of polygons drawn on dotty grids...

Exploring Coordinates and Vectors 
Age 11 to 16

I wonder what we can find out when using coordinates and vectors on dotty grids...

Exploring Distance 
Age 11 to 16

I wonder what we can find out about distances along grid lines...

Related

  • Angles, Polygons and Geometrical Proof (age 11-14)
  • Perimeter, Area and Volume (age 11-14)
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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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