Summary and Synthesis

Last week we focused on finding the areas of triangles and polygons. In the past, I have always encountered short lessons on the area of triangles. The teacher simply gives the formula, shows how to "plug" numbers into it, and then gives an assignment over it. I have never spent so much time discussing and digging deep into the formula itself. I feel like I now fully undertand not just how to use the formula A=1/2Bh, but what it actually means. I like how we took time and did several different activities that helped us uncover the formula's actual purpose.

I also think it has been helpful to discuss problems with our peers. I think everyone has different views on things and it is very helpful to hear the way others solve problems. If I can look at a problem and be able to identify several different paths to the same solution, it will be easier for me to make sense of the problem. Talking with others helps me to become aware of other possible strategies I would not have thought of on my own.