We are thrilled to introduce an engaging resource for your geometry lessons: the "Tessellating Blocks" activity. This free activity is designed for Year 1 and Year 2 students and can be downloaded by clicking the button at the bottom of the page. It's a fantastic way to help young learners explore the concept of tessellation through hands-on, creative play.

 

What is the "Tessellating Blocks" Activity?

The "Tessellating Blocks" activity features a tessellating pattern in the middle of the page made up of various shapes. Students are encouraged to place shape blocks on top of this pattern and then use additional blocks to expand the tessellating pattern until it covers the entire page. This activity utilizes pattern blocks that are commonly found in most classrooms, making it an accessible and practical resource for teachers.

 

Why Use the "Tessellating Blocks" Activity?

1. Hands-On Learning:

   • Engages students in a tactile and visual exploration of geometric concepts.

   • Encourages active participation and creative thinking.

2. Concept Reinforcement:

   • Helps students understand the concept of tessellation, where shapes fit together without any gaps or overlaps.

   • Reinforces recognition of different shapes and their properties.

3. Versatile Use:

   • Suitable for various classroom settings, including individual work, math centers, and group activities.

   • Can be used to introduce or reinforce tessellation concepts in a fun and interactive way.

 

How to Use the "Tessellating Blocks" Activity

1. Preparation:

   • Download and print the worksheet for each student.

   • Ensure that there are enough pattern blocks available for students to use. These blocks typically include shapes such as triangles, squares, hexagons, and rhombuses.

2. Activity Steps:

   • Students start by placing shape blocks on top of the tessellating pattern in the middle of the worksheet.

   • They then continue to expand the pattern by adding more shape blocks, ensuring that the shapes fit together without gaps or overlaps until the entire page is covered.

3. Creative Exploration:

   • Encourage students to experiment with different combinations of shapes and patterns.

   • Allow them to explore various ways to extend the tessellating pattern creatively.

 

Benefits of the "Tessellating Blocks" Activity

• Enhances Spatial Awareness: Helps students develop a better understanding of spatial relationships and geometric concepts.

• Promotes Problem-Solving: Encourages critical thinking as students figure out how to fit the shapes together to continue the pattern.

• Engaging and Fun: Makes learning about tessellation enjoyable and interactive.

• Accessible Resource: Uses common classroom materials, making it easy to implement.

 

Classroom Tips

1. Group Collaboration:

   • Have students work in pairs or small groups to complete the tessellating pattern, promoting teamwork and communication.

2. Discussion and Reflection:

   • After completing the activity, have a class discussion about tessellation. Ask students to share their patterns and discuss what they observed.

3. Extended Activities:

   • Integrate this activity with art lessons by having students create tessellated designs with different colors and patterns.

   • Challenge students to find examples of tessellation in the classroom or at home.

4. Assessment and Feedback:

   • Use the completed patterns as an informal assessment of students’ understanding of tessellation.

   • Provide positive feedback and highlight creative approaches to expanding the pattern.

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The "Tessellating Blocks" activity is an excellent addition to any geometry lesson, providing students with a hands-on, interactive way to explore tessellation. By building and expanding tessellating patterns, students develop a deeper understanding of geometric concepts while having fun. Download the worksheet today and watch your students’ creativity and understanding of tessellation grow!