Rolling PolygonsA dynamic PowerPoint introduction to

the “Rolling Polygons Investigation” created by Mrs A. Furniss.

PolygonsA polygon is a 2D (flat) shape with many sides.

Regular Polygons

(all side lengths and angles

equal)

Irregular Polygons

(different side lengths)

An Introduction to Rolling PolygonsRoll an equilateral triangle around a regular hexagon.

How many rolls does it take to get the triangle back to its starting position?

Answer = 6

Now try rolling a square around a regular hexagon. How many rolls does it take to get the square back to its

starting position?

Keep going ; the dot

needs to finish at the top!

Answer = 12

Recording Your Results• Try other combinations of polygons. • Write down your results using a table like the one below.

• Can you find a link between the number of sides on the polygons you have used and the number of rolls it takes? • Write this down under the subheading of “Conclusion”

Shape 1 (stationary)

Shape 2 (rolled)

Number of Rolls

hexagon triangle 6

Extension Task:Investigating The Loci of Rolling Polygons•A locus (plural : loci) is the path something travels•Sketch the locus of the dot as one regular polygon rolls around another. Here is an example:

Try changing the position of the dot.

Investigate with other

combinations of regular polygons.