Roadside Geometry

Description

In this module, students analyze the geometric properties of road signs. This includes studying triangular, quadrilateral, and other polygon forms in such familiar signs as the stop sign, the yield sign, and many other examples.

Students then study the non-geometric properties of these signs, specifically the color coding developed by the US Department of Transportation. This provides a real-world application of geometric concepts.

Geometric topics covered include:

  • Properties of equilateral and isosceles triangles
  • Properties of quadrilaterals, specifically rectangles and squares
  • Properties of other polygons

Finally, students combine their understanding of the geometric and color-coding used with signs to analyze specific road signs using critical thinking and logical reasoning. Your student s will be highly engaged by this study of roadside geometry.

Math Concepts

  • Geometry

Learning Objectives

  • Identify geometric properties of real world objects
  • Tell the difference between mathematical and non-mathematical properties
  • Solve real world problems using geometry

Prerequisite Skills

  • Can identify basic 2-dimensional shapes
  • Knows basic geometric measurements
Common Core Standards CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.2.G.A.1, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.G.A.1, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.MD.C.5, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.G.B.3
Lesson Duration 45 mins
Grade Range 2nd - 5th Grade

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