UCLA Olga Radko Endowed Math Circle

10/24/2021 -- Beginners 2A: Fall - Triangles

Class Plan:

We continue our study of geometry through the lens of compass-ruler constructions. In this lesson, we focus on reviewing the proofs in the student's assigned homework.

Required Resources:

A pencil, eraser, compass, and a straight edge (such as a ruler or the side of a protractor).

Homework Due:

Students are asked to have completed up to page 7 of the "Introduction to Geometry - Lesson 3" handout before this class. This will be a challenging assignment as it consists mostly of proofs, so no worries if the students are not able to answer every question.

Homework Assigned:

We highly recommend the students review up to the second last page in the packet posted below. The last page is optional, but encouraged, for students who have mastered the prior material. This assignment will be due in two weeks, meaning on the November 7th lesson. Note that the homework packet below combines the end of the "Introduction to Geometry - Lesson 2" handout with the beginning of the "Introduction to Geometry - Lesson 3" handout. Thus, the packet is entirely review and all material the students have seen at least once.

Instructors Comments:

The overreaching goal for this course is to strengthen the students' geometric intuition. However, this is the first time many students are being introduced to the concept of proofs (let alone geometric proofs). So, the instructors believe it is important that we take our time while studying and practicing proofs. Every student already understands triangle congruence, yet they all hesitate to use that understanding in their proofs. This is why the homework packet is reviewed. Please note that the students have 2 weeks to work through the assignment, so they should not feel rushed. Again, page 17 is optional and encouraged for students who have mastered the material, meaning their proofs rely on triangle congruence and they can explain their proofs to their parents. Do not worry if the students do not come up with solutions to the challenge problems, as they are indeed quite challenging.

Halloween Survey Results:

Lesson 5 for Beginners 2A will be held on Sunday, October 31 which is the day of Halloween. So, the Halloween lesson will be held from 3 pm to 5 pm rather than the typical time of 4 pm to 6 pm. The students are more than welcome to wear their Halloween costumes to class! We will have a fun Halloween-themed lesson plan for that day!

Contact Information:

Please reach out to the instructors Andy Shen at andyshen55@g.ucla.edu or Naji Sarsam at najisarsam@g.ucla.edu if you have any questions, comments, or concerns!