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The language of geometry

The words and symbols of geometry are used to describe specific spatial ideas and relationships accurately and succinctly. For many students, the words of geometry are either new to them or are familiar words used in unfamiliar ways.

When both the geometric concept and the words used to describe it are new, you will need to explicitly teach the technical terms.

Geometric literacy

There are many symbols, words and phrases specific to geometry which students struggle to fully understand. Difficulty arises especially when the geometric meaning differs from everyday conversational meaning.

Tackling the terminology

When teaching the language of geometry it is important to establish clear links between the terminology and the spatial concept involved.

Translating geometric descriptions

In this construction activity, students draw diagrams to illustrate geometric relationships.