After playing around on Google Docs in class, I was curious about what else Google had to offer. I came across Google SketchUp, which works perfectly with teaching Geometry. I’ve only played around with it a little bit so far, but I think Google SketchUp would really catch the interest of many tech-savvy students. Basically, the program allows you to design and “build” 3D buildings.
Geometry SOL G.12: “The student will make a model of a three-dimensional figure from a two-dimensional drawing, and make a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional object. Models and representations will include scale drawings, perspective drawings, blueprints, or computer simulations.”
Though not as closely related, Google SketchUp could also be used to explain concepts such as surface area vs. volume.
For anyone who’s interested, you can access Google SketchUp through the regular google page through “Even More,” “Communicate, show & share,” or by clicking the links. Also the video tutorials are extremely helpful.