Spatial Sense: A Problem Solving Approach

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Spatial Sense A Problem Solving Approach
David Allen Texas Tech University
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Spatial Sense
TAAS TEKS NCTM

• TEKS--Over Thirty References to Spatial Reasoning
  Throughout K-6
• TAAS--Obj. 3 TLW demonstrate an understanding of
  geometric properties and relationships.
• NCTM--Standard 3Geometry and Spatial Sense

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Pedagogical Approachto Problem Solving

• Four Step
• Process
• 1. Read and understand the problem
• 2. Devise a plan
• 3. Carry out the plan
• 4. Check your answer

• Blooms
• Taxonomy
• Knowledge
• Comprehension
• Application
• Analysis
• Synthesis
• Evaluation

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Basic Knowledge Development

• Knowledge development creates a building block
  for understanding
• 7 pieces (Shape and Characteristics)
• Relationship of pieces to each other
• Relationship to whole
• Area and perimeter
• Building knowledge base is the key to
• comprehension and application

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Comprehension and Application

• Understanding attributes is essential to making
  connections
• Strategy Work from part to whole. (ie. Three
  pieces first)
• Increase number of pieces and work within the
  same context
• Work with seven pieces to final project

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Analysis and Synthesis

• Key to analysis is to examine the parts of the
  whole
• Synthesis is combining the parts maintaining the
  original characteristics yet forming something
  new

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Evaluation

• Students are encouraged to extend and explore
  their understandings through the curious Paradox!
• Students should always examine the extent of
  their understanding