Figuring+All+the+Angles


 * Overview**: This unit is in the Geometry Strand. Students will investigate various geometric relationships and properties by exploring maps. By the end of the unit they should be able to use directions and distance to solve simple problems; identify position on rectangular and polar grids; use scale on a map to determine distance; use angles to describe geometric shapes and solve problems (From Figuring All the Angles Teacher's Edition, Encyclopedia Brittanica, Inc. 2003.)


 * Section A**: Students explore the cardinal directions (N, E, S, & W) and compare the relative and absolute use of directions.


 * Section B**: Students investigate rectangular grid maps and learn to estimate and determine distances using the scale of the map. They are introduced to the idea of parallel and perpendicular lines by examining city streets (This particular city will be used in subsequent units throughout middle school).


 * Section C**: Students investigate the use of flat maps to represent the spherical earth.


 * Section D**: Students use a compass card (360 degree protractor) to navigate a map and follow directions.


 * Section E**: Students are introduced to polar grids as a means to describe location and movement. They also compare the polar grid to a rectangular grid.


 * Section F**: Students investigate relationships between a turn angle and resulting angle (supplementary angles) and apply this relationship to investigate exterior and interior angles of regular polygons.


 * Section G**: Students apply their skills to investigate a variety of geometric designs. They learn to measure angles and apply the variety of strategies learned in the unit. This section introduces the terms right, acute, and obtuse angles.

Explore angles and distances with [|turtle turns] Play a [|map game] Interactive game: [|Estimating Angles] [|How far is it]? Find distances between cities of the world on two types of maps. [|Estimate the angle] to shoot down the aliens