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For younger learners

  • Early Years Foundation Stage

Rolling Triangle

Age 11 to 14
Challenge Level Yellow starYellow starYellow star
  • Problem
  • Getting Started
  • Student Solutions

Notice what happens to the motion when the sides of the triangle are perpendicular to the floor and plank.

Notice the differences to what happens on the floor and on the plank when the triangle rolls in opposite directions.

You might like to try cutting out a very accurate rolling triangle with which to experiment.

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Is There a Theorem?

Draw a square. A second square of the same size slides around the first always maintaining contact and keeping the same orientation. How far does the dot travel?

The Old Goats

A rectangular field has two posts with a ring on top of each post. There are two quarrelsome goats and plenty of ropes which you can tie to their collars. How can you secure them so they can't fight each other but can reach every corner of the field?

Rolling Around

A circle rolls around the outside edge of a square so that its circumference always touches the edge of the square. Can you describe the locus of the centre of the circle?

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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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