Activity Overview
This problem can be used in Geometry of Algebra. Ryan desires to build a rectangluar fence to keep his puppy in. What shape should he use if he has 8 meters of fencing?
Before the Activity
Students should have access to a TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus with Cabri Jr.™ loaded.
During the Activity
This is the teacher notes. Activity Six is a good follow up. (See Extensions below.)
After the Activity
An extension to this activity is exploring regular polygons to find the figure that will give the maximum area given a fixed perimeter. The construction is extensive, and the best strategy might be to lead students initially, then let them make the discovery.