Disciplinary Literacy: Mathematics

Summary

In a dynamic classroom setting, students engage in a deep exploration of Edwin A. Abbott's 'Flatland,' Victorian literature, and Plato's 'Allegory of the Cave.' The lesson focuses on how geometric concepts illustrate societal structures, with students participating in group discussions and categorizing responses to enhance critical thinking. By analyzing the significance of geometric shapes as metaphors for social roles, the class uncovers Abbott's critique of Victorian England. This interactive approach encourages students to draw connections between literature, geometry, and contemporary societal issues, fostering a richer understanding of the texts and their implications.

Takeaways

• 📚 Students are encouraged to reread assigned texts, including *Flatland* and *Allegory of the Cave*, to prepare for discussion.
• 🗣️ The class emphasizes collaborative learning through group discussions on Abbott's background, Victorian England, and philosophical themes.
• 📝 Students use sticky notes to respond to questions, promoting active engagement and critical thinking.
• 🔄 Responses are categorized into 'Agree,' 'Disagree,' and 'Don't Know,' fostering deeper analysis of differing viewpoints.
• 🔺 Abbott uses geometric shapes in *Flatland* to symbolize social hierarchies and status within Victorian society.
• ⚖️ The discussion draws parallels between Abbott's critique of societal structures and Plato's philosophy of enlightenment and ignorance.
• 🔍 Students are prompted to consider why Abbott might have used geometry as a tool for social commentary.
• 🛠️ The importance of geometry is highlighted as students learn how shapes correlate to concepts of power and knowledge.
• 🔄 Reflection on the connections between geometry and philosophical ideas is encouraged, enhancing students' critical thinking skills.
• 🎉 The session concludes with positive feedback about the collaborative and interactive nature of the learning experience.

Q & A

What is the essential question for the day's lesson?

The essential question is how Edwin Abbott uses 'Flatland' and geometry to illustrate his views on Victorian England and Plato's 'Allegory of the Cave.'

What are the assigned readings for the students?

Students are assigned to reread 'Flatland,' Victorian literature, and Plato's 'Allegory of the Cave.'

What activity do students participate in regarding sticky notes?

Students will move around the classroom to answer questions on sticky notes, categorizing responses into 'agree,' 'disagree,' and 'don't know.'

How does the teacher encourage discussion about social hierarchies in 'Flatland'?

The teacher prompts students to discuss how different geometric shapes represent social status and the implications of these representations.

What does the teacher suggest about Abbott's views on Victorian England?

The teacher suggests that Abbott may be critical of Victorian society, implying that he was 'throwing a little bit of shade' at its ignorance.

What geometric concept does the teacher explain in relation to the social hierarchy in 'Flatland'?

The teacher explains that the smaller the vertex angles of the shapes representing characters, the less important their social status is, illustrating a hierarchy.

What do students learn about scaling triangles?

Students learn that scaling triangles are not perfect, as the larger angles of the shapes can lead to a loss of status or importance.

How does the lesson integrate geometry with social commentary?

The lesson intertwines geometry with social commentary by using shapes to represent different roles and statuses within society, highlighting societal critiques.

What do students categorize their sticky note answers into?

Students categorize their sticky note answers into three groups: 'agree,' 'disagree,' and 'don't know.'

How does the lesson conclude regarding student engagement?

The lesson concludes positively, with students expressing that they enjoyed the activities and discussions.