Cross sections are two dimensional shapes created in a three dimensional shape when a plane cuts through it. This creates many different shapes depending on where the plane cuts through the shape. Teaching cross planes is important for geometry and more advanced math and science subjects. You can utilize many ways to teach cross sections.
Jello Cross Sections
One of the simplest ways to make hands-on cross sections is to use Jello. This is especially appropriate when you introduce the concepts to younger classes. They will enjoy handling the Jello and eating it after the exercise is over. Make several different shapes using Jello and Jello molds. Make sure you have enough for every student to have a few copies of each shape. Introduce the concepts of cross sections to your students and hand out the Jello shapes. Use a plastic butter knife to slice cross sections out of the Jello shapes. Students can then view the different shapes they have created and eat the Jello shapes.
Making New Shapes
Cross sections for different shapes create different new shapes. Help your students see this first hand by using this exercise. Hand out worksheets with different shapes printed out on front. They can use this as a guide during the lesson. Stand up in front of the class and ask students what shape is created when you cross section a different shape. Students raise their hands to answer and get a point for answering correctly. Students who get the most points by answering the most questions should receive extra credit. Students can then fill out the worksheet and turn it in at the end of the hour.
Multiple Cross Sections
Making multiple cross sections creates entirely new shapes of various sizes. Teach your students this geometry lesson using this simple exercise. Hand out Styrofoam shapes and give your students scissors or butter knives to use. Students start by creating one cross section in each one of their shapes. They must write down the shape that is made by creating the cross section. Then, they have to write down a prediction on the shape that will be created by the next cross section. Students then create a new cross section in each piece, writing down the shape that was created and whether it met their prediction or not.
Quiz Show
A cross section quiz show is a fun way for students to learn all about cross sections. Format the show any way you like, such as Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune. Students answer questions about cross sections, such as how cross sections can be used to find volume or the different possible cross sections available in each individual shape. Test their math skills by having the students solve cross section formulas and test their memory skills by having them remember definitions. Play the game in a team format so that students can work together to figure out the answers.
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