Structural Geometry

For SpiderGirl's learning plan this year, she expressed an interest in learning about building and architecture.  In addition to looking at some of the fabulous designs around the world and photographing archtectural details around town, we have explored the shapes used to hold these structures up.

Although rectangles are used in many buildings, triangles are stronger by far.  In order to make a rectangle, we must put together two triangles.  We talked briefly about circles and semi-circles, but haven't had a chance yet to explore those.

Next mathematics-in-architecture exploration:  the Golden Ratio!