Sharing Resources
Mar 10th, 2010 by Bev
Google SketchUp
The four programs that I am most familiar with GeoGebra, graphing calculators, Geometers Sketchpad, and the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives have already been written about so I went exploring for something new. One free program that I had been introduced to, but have never had a real chance to explore is Google SketchUp a free program that allows one to create 3D designs like a professional. Google SketchUp was easy to down-load and very easy to use. What I find really appealing about this program is that it allows students to explore real-world applications. It shows that these concepts are important and this is how people like architects, civil engineers, filmmakers, and game developers apply geometric concepts. Students can explore a wide variety of real world geometric concepts and have fun doing it. It provides tools for measurement, scaling, drawing and measuring angles and arcs to name only a few Google SketchUp also has features which allow it to interact with Google Earth so student creations can be placed in Google Earth.
Google provides a free down-load as well as web-based supports with a variety of video tutorials, and lesson ideas. I also found other sites that provided lesson ideas such as the following one http://www.3dvinci.net/teacherguide/teacherguide.pdf
Geometry is an area of mathematics that begins with a visual understanding. Although most children do not have much difficulty understanding and visualizing the elements of 2d objects, the same cannot always be said for 3D objects. In my experience students have a difficult time visualizing different surfaces, or manipulating the object in space. Understanding things such as total surface areas, or even volume can challenge students who cannot visualize the objects in their minds. Any program such as SketchUp that allows students to produce a 3D model will enhance their understanding.
Students will be able to explore different geometric principles using this software, and be able to create their own models. When students are engaged in their own creations, they are often very excited to share with their peers.
These tools are used in the real world by many professionals. This program will allow teachers to place real world tools into the hands of their students.
Hi Bev,
I really enjoyed learning about the Google SketchUp resource that you shared in this post. I think it is indeed a wonderful program to help students learn about measuements and angles that would need to be employed when designing large structures or buildings in the real world. I was particularly impressed with how professional and real the diagrams look. Considering it is a free application it givs teachers the power to show students what real professionals need to be aware of when designing urban plans. A definite benefit is providing students opportunities to become engaged in their creations which makes engineering and mathematics seem more real for them. Awesome!
Anthony Di Palma