The Curves project is an exploration of various interesting curves, like those that can be generated by physical objects in motion. Study of curves in high school mathematics courses are typically limited to those whose equations can be studied in depth, particularly the conic sections; the Curves project, however, is involved less with equations and focuses on how they are generated geometrically.
The tool used in the exploration is a program called The Geometer's Sketchpad. It allows students to use geometric construction techniques to create and animate figures; the shapes on screen have relations with one another that are preserved when the shapes are distorted, allowing the simulation of physical phenomena.
The tutorial used by the students in the Calculus BC class this year to construct these curves is available in several parts. Details on the several curves are forthcoming.


©1997-2000 The NHHS HGM Math Department. All rights reserved.