Schoolwide News

Tiling—covering a plane with the same shape over and over again without overlaps—creates many different kinds of math problems and connects to several areas of mathematics. This month’s Problem of the Month gives us a chance to explore a variety of tiling problems from different mathematical perspectives. You can find Miles of Tiles here!

March’s problem, Tri-triangles, proved to be fun for everyone. Triangular patterns caught the interest of Lower School and Upper School students alike, and those who attended MathFest were able to pick up a copy there as well.

What I love about the Tri-triangles problems is that all of the triangular patterns in parts A–E can be explored by students at many different levels. I was in a second grade classroom last week, and although the students did not attempt the algebraic equations, they were able to draw the next few diagrams in the sequences. Problems like this are wonderful for sparking mathematical imagination and giving younger students a glimpse of where math can take them.

Thank you to all of you who attempted Tri-triangles!  You can find the solution key here.

If you would like ideas for how to work on the Problem of the Month with your children, or if you would like to submit a solution, please email me at tcalcagni@eabdf.br.  Happy puzzling!