Assignment #1 Reflection

Our group presented on the Serpinski Triangles. We focused on two aspects of their design, Cellular Automaton and the use of different cells. Cellular Automaton was taught by showing the class the different rules that generate different triangles, while the concept of creating fractal shapes one level up was taught by having the class play around with physical cells that we cut out. It was interesting to see how one art project could be used to investigate different mathematical topics.

I really enjoyed making the art and getting more experience with the Sierpinski triangle which I have seen many times but never built before. It was interesting to investigate the different aspects of the art project with my group and we realized multiple different angles our project could take. It was a highlight of mine to get to work with Evan and Nandini and collaborate on our ideas. I also enjoyed the process of sharing our art with the class and seeing their interpretation of the extension project which turned out differently than we expected. It reminded me of the benefit of collaborating! My experience as a learner reminded me that Math projects can be fun and engaging, especially when there is creative allowance. 

I think students may enjoy the process of seeing how art and math are connected and getting to be creative. I think our topic could possibly be used in a grade 11 or 12 class when students are learning about patterns! Fractals are a great way for students to see how Math can be seen in nature and design. My experience as a teacher reminded me that being comfortable with lessons going in different directions is important and that students can lead a lesson to interesting discoveries.