🕵️‍♀️ Math Investigators

Focus: 2D & 3D shapes, sequences, ratios, and measurements

Theme: Patterns and algebraic thinking

Materials:

  • Paper and pencil

  • Ruler or measuring tape

  • Optional: Calculator, protractor

Instructions:

  1. 🔍 Explore your home, yard, or neighborhood. Look for 2D and 3D shapes as well as patterns and sequences (tiles, stripes, spirals, natural patterns).

  2. ✏️ Sketch or photograph the shapes and patterns you find. Label their geometric properties and count them.

  3. 📏 Measure lengths, widths, heights, or diameters. Record your measurements.

  4. 🔄 Identify repeating patterns or sequences. Note how the shapes or measurements change (arithmetic or geometric sequences).

  5. 📊 Represent your findings with tables, charts, or diagrams.

Discussion Questions

  • Can you model repeating patterns using numbers or algebra?

  • How do ratios or proportions describe the shapes or patters you see?

  • Can you find examples of symmetry, Fibonacci patterns, or spirals in nature or objects?

Optional Extensions

  1. ⚽ 3D Shape Analysis: Identify the volume or surface area of 3D objects you find (estimate if necessary).

  2. ➗ Ratio & Proportion: Compare the sizes of similar shapes and calculate ratios.

  3. 🍁 Fractal Hunt: Look for repeated patterns at different scales (leaves, flowers, snowflakes, pinecones).

  4. 🔣 Predictive Patterns: Based on the patterns you see, predict what shape or pattern might appear next in a sequence.