Download Subject: Mathematics (High School)

Subject: Mathematics (High School)
Topic: Geometry: Congruent Angles (Todd Davis, Wright City High School, Geometry)
Lesson Purpose: To prepare for upcoming test.
 Students will review the various ways to prove angles congruent.
 Students will practice problem solving.
 Students will be able to explain procedures to others.
 Students will solidify their ability to prove angles congruent given a problem to solve.
Character education purpose
 To learn the value of cooperation and perseverance in solving problems.
Materials:
Pre-printed problem sheets
Pre-printed overheads
Lesson:
1. Hand out sheets with 1-5 proofs dealing with congruent triangles. Repeat later with a second set.
2. Have overheads, Smart Board, etc. with unsolved proofs.
3. Review the formulas for proving that congruent triangles exist.
4. Review the four ways to prove triangles congruent.
5. Assign students to groups of four for Heads Together. Hand out one sheet to each group. Students
are to prove that their assigned problem is, or is not, congruent. If it is, they are to prove why.
Number off within the group. Each member of the group will be able to explain the process if called
on. Use Solve/Share*.
*Each person will solve the problem on his own then discuss his method with the group. The
group will decide on the best method and prepare to share it with the whole class.
Teaching Tips:
 The numbering within the group is a good cooperative learning structure that helps teach
responsibility for all members of the group.
 Set a time limit for the solutions.
6. Call one number (1, 2, 3, 4). Have the person from each group with that number explain the
group’s method to the class as the teacher records the explanation.
7. Continuing as above, each group is given a second problem in order to solidify the lesson purpose.
Closure/Reflection:
1. Ask students to reflect upon then discuss the pros/cons of using cooperative learning as preparation
for a test.
2. Ask them if they feel more or less prepared (using this method) for the upcoming test. Responses
should be defended.