Fractals : what comes next?

URL:

http://www.figurethis.org/challenges/c23/challenge.htm

Abstract:

This online activity challenges students to explore the relationship between the number of triangles and the sum of the triangle perimeters in each of the first three iterations of the Sierpinski triangle fractal. The activity is one of 80 mathematical challenges featured on the Figure This! web site. In this activity, students are encouraged to use two problem-solving strategies: investigate a simpler problem and make a chart. For other sections of the activity, students find the general rule for determining the amount of paint needed to cover the increasing number of triangles in iterations of the Sierpinski triangle and investigate similar area and perimeter questions with square fractals. The activity includes information about self-similarity, a key characteristic of fractals, and about how fractals can model natural phenomena. Copyright 2005 Eisenhower National Clearinghouse

Grade Level:

6 - 8

Audience:

Learner

Learning Resource Type:

Lesson

Subjects: