Table of Contents

Phase 3 - Patterns in the Sky

Implementation

Depending on student abilities, teaching strategies, and curriculum emphasis, the suggested times may need adjustment. The recommended time for this phase is 2-3 hours.

1. Begin the phase with an explanation of ‘constellation’. This could include visuals, such as video or static images. Discuss how various constellations exhibit combinations of polygons. The Math Mentor tutorial, Introduction to Quadrilaterals could be used as a lead into the resource.

2. The teacher leads the students through Phase 3: Patterns in the Sky as a whole class. The teacher’s role is to confirm understanding through questioning.

3. At relevant places in Phase 3, pause the whole class presentation sequence and have students individually, or in pairs, complete the lessons in Math Mentor. The tutorial, Classifying Quadrilaterals could be used after screen 1 if students’ prior knowledge is limited; or after screen 2 as review. The tutorial, Angle Properties, could be used after screen 2 or 3 depending on student needs.

4. Direct students to complete teacher-designated Exploration activities. The teacher acts as a coach to clarify understanding and as an assessor of student achievement to plan further learning.

5. Conclude the Phase by having students complete the Math Challenge and the Space Navigation Log.

6. Evaluate student achievement using the assessment rubric provided.