Projects are a great way for students to demonstrate their understanding of mathematics in a colorful, artistic way. When using GeoGebra, the open-source Geometry-Algebra-Graphing software, their projects rise to a new height. Many of these projects are as good as those you run across on the internet, and many can be used as instructional aids in the classroom.
Last week my 9th grade classes spent two days in the computer lab creating these projects. Each student signed up for a different parabola, then created its graph using GeoGebra. They were asked to use a font large enough to read when their projects were displayed using an LCD classroom projector, and also to use color to enhance understanding. When they completed the graph in GeoGebra, they exported it to MS Word for final editing. Using Text Boxes in Word they were able to list some of the properties of their parabola. This was a nice project since it required students to learn skills needed to communicate their ideas to others. When done, students printed their projects, my Teacher Aides uploaded them to my Picasa website, and now anyone can view their finished works of art/math. Below is a slideshow of their work.
Projects can be created on computer, or can be made using paper/pencil. The end result is a demonstration of mathematics in an alternative way. I encourage you to give projects a try; your students will surely thank you!
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