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Year 8 - Maths

Problem solving with constructions

Constructions

Unit Summary

In this unit we develop skills in using a pair of compasses and ruler to construct various accurate shapes and angles including triangles, rhombi, perpendicular lines and angle bisectors.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use your knowledge of constructions to solve problems.

Key Notes

  • Shapes made from triangles can be constructed.
  • By investigation it is possible to accurately construct multiple polygons.
  • Shortest distances can be found using constructions with perpendicular lines.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Bisect: To bisect means to cut or divide an object into two equal parts.
  • Rhombus: A rhombus is a parallelogram where all sides are the same length.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • You always need to draw circles that are the same size to construct any polygon.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

Shapes made from triangles can be constructed. By investigation it is possible to accurately construct multiple polygons.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Bisect'

To bisect means to cut or divide an object into two equal parts. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: You always need to draw circles that are the same size to construct any polygon. Correction: Some polygons, such as kites, require you to construct two circles of different size, as long as they still intersect at two points.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 8 Maths guide library.