Cabri 3D: an environment for creative mathematical design

Kate Mackrell, June 2007

In the spirit of Logo

• Dimensions of purpose and utility (Ainley+Pratt, 2006)

• Examples– GSP DGYL project, work of students of Sipus,

Gusic and Mladinic at this conference

Purpose, Utility and 3D DGS

• Need to engage with mathematics to create satisfying objects

• Examples from my own exploration

Aim of research

• Overall projects that engage learners + develop their mathematics

• Design of materials which enable students to engage effectively with Cabri 3D

Context

• Grade 7 and 8 students in programme for academically able

• Motivated students

• Good facilities

• Relaxed curriculum

Projects

• Club May/June 2006

• Gr 8 dream house Oct/Nov 2006

• Gr 7 transformations Feb 2007

• Gr 7 polyhedra May 2007

• Gr 8 animation June 2007

Interventions

• Teacher – led

• Handouts

• Flash Demos

• Website

• Replay Construction files

Findings

All students able to use Cabri to construct complex objects

Evidence of creative use of mathematics in pursuit of own goals.

Flash demos and replay construction files are the best learning materials (so far!)

Issues

• What mathematics are students engaging with? Does this require the naming of new mathematics?

• How can I fine-tune the balance between giving too much and giving too little?

Contact me

• katemackrell@sympatico.ca

• Google on my name, or on Cabri 3D to get my website