Cindy

Differentiation is planning, teaching, and assessing to a student's strengths and needs. Teachers differentiate so they can teach effectively and efficiently and kids can learn effectively and efficiently.

The following is a lesson on forming cubes with nets that I will use with 6th graders:

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//**21st century skills that are embedded in the lesson**//
 * Creativity and Innovation
 * Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
 * Communication and Collaboration

Collaboration and discussion throughout the lesson. Use of technology-- online student activities.

//**Differentiation**// In the box on the right hand side, students can select "Cube Nets" to see a demonstration of a net being folded into a cube-- useful for students who are having trouble visualizing. Students may use Polydrons, Klikkos, or Geofix instead of paper and tape-- this would be a time-saver, as well. Students can select "Patterns for Solid Figures" for additional help in creating nets that form cubes. Under "Extensions" there are several ways to challenge students who have mastered the initial lesson.

= Building a Box lesson plan =
 * see website for learning objectives.

Materials
class set of computers class set of //Building a Box Activity Sheet// class set of Polydrons, Klikkos, or Geofix OR multiple copies of large grid paper for each student (for folding) class set of centimeter grid paper (for recording) Several rolls of tape

Procedure
Whole group: read //Building a Box Activity Sheet.// Demo a net that will form a cube, and one that will not.

Small group: Have students in groups of 2-3 to make nets.

Whole group: Share different nets [did students find all 11 nets that will form a cube?] Discuss common characteristics of nets that did/did not form cubes. Discuss //congruency// and how to test for congruency. Discuss properties of cubes and their nets.

Partner: "Use Cube Nets Tool" on website to ensure all 11 nets are found. Encourage further discussion of above topics.

Assessment
"Questions for Students" at bottom of website.

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