As our unusual school year comes to an end, we are left wondering, how do we wrap up the year online? Usually the end of the year means projects to summarize a year’s worth of learning. So, how can we do that online? Read on for 3 low-prep geometry projects for distance learning.
Distance Learning Geometry Projects Idea #1: Geogebra Constructions Picture
Typically when students do constructions, each construction is isolated. Construct an equilateral triangle. Construct a perpendicular bisector. Have you ever had students create multiple constructions on top of each other to create a picture? This is always something fun to try. Construction is where math meets art. For distance learning, students can create art with constructions on Geogebra. Geogebra is a free online application that allows students to create geometric constructions. There are plenty of tutorials on YouTube to get students started creating. (Geogebra even has its own YouTube channel!)
Geometry Project for Distance Learning Idea #2: Geometry Photo Scavenger Hunt
This is a digital take on a classic geometry project! Geometry is everywhere. Help students see that with a scavenger hunt. Provide students with a list of geometry terms to identify in real life, and students demonstrate their understanding of the terms by snapping a photo of a real life example of the terms they find. Students can share their pictures individually, but if you ask them to create a slideshow, they can add text identifying and explaining the geometry term they found.
Geometry Projects Idea #3: Teach a Topic
This is a simple project that makes a big impact. In the classroom, when I struggle to come up with a project suitable for a unit, this is my go-to. Depending on the unit, I either assign or allow students to choose a topic, and then I have students create a poster. The direction I give is to create a poster so that someone that never learned the topic before would understand it. A variation of this project that I sometimes use is to create a slideshow. With distance learning, students could create an infographic using online applications like Picmonkey or Canva, or students could create videos of themselves explaining their topics. The possibilities are endless, and this is easily adaptable to your student population.
For each of these geometry projects, it is up to you what parameters you want to set. Do students have to incorporate at least 5 different constructions? Do they have to find at least 6 different geometry terms in real-life? I suggest keeping it simple for grading purposes. Bonus project idea: You could offer students an option of two or three projects so students can play to their strengths.
For more distance learning tips, check out The Best Google Classroom Tutorials: Everything You Need to Know!
