Last week marked a significant chapter in the mathematical journey of our Grade 8 students as they delved into the captivating realm of circle geometry. Turning to the history books, students uncovered two fascinating methods for proving the formula to find the area of a circle: the method of parallelograms attributed to Leonardo da Vinci and the method of triangles pioneered by Rabbi Abraham bar Hiyya Hanasi.
The classroom became a hub of activity as students dove into these historical approaches. Armed with pencils, paper cutouts, and strings, they set out to understand these methods firsthand. Through drawing exercises and hands-on experimentation, they gained a deeper appreciation for the mathematical brilliance of da Vinci and Rabbi Hanasi.
But their exploration didn’t stop at the boundaries of the circle. They expanded their horizons to explore the transition from circle surface area to the volume of cylinders and pies. In celebration of Pi Day, they tackled exercises and problems on the IXL website, applying their newfound knowledge to real-world scenarios and honing their problem-solving skills.
However, the highlight of their Pi Day celebration didn’t just involve mathematical calculations — it involved a delicious integration of circle geometry and the Talmudic Clock into the baking of actual pies. After meticulous calculations, they crafted eight delicious pies, savoring both the taste of success and the joy of interdisciplinary learning.
As they reflect on the adventures of the week, they’re not merely mastering mathematical concepts; they’re delving into the fascinating history and evolution of mathematics, discovering the threads that connect past discoveries to their present learning journey.
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“Through the Classroom Window” is an opportunity for teachers to share the inspiring learning that takes place in their classrooms, giving others a glimpse into the heartbeat of the school.
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