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Frieze patterns in cast iron
A gallery of beautiful photos of cast ironwork friezes in Australia with a mathematical discussion of the classification of frieze patterns.
Rotations
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articleThe frieze tree
Patterns that repeat in a line are strangely interesting. How many types are there and how do you tell one type from another? -
articleShaping up with tessellations
This article describes the scope for practical exploration of tessellations both in and out of the classroom. It seems a golden opportunity to link art with maths, allowing the creative side of your children to take over. -
articleCoordinating classroom coordinates
This article describes a practical approach to enhance the teaching and learning of coordinates. -
article2010: a year of investigations
This article for teachers suggests ideas for activities built around 10 and 2010. -
articlePaint rollers for frieze patterns
Proofs that there are only seven frieze patterns involve complicated group theory. The symmetries of a cylinder provide an easier approach.
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pageLafayette
What mathematical words can be used to describe this floor covering? How many different shapes can you see inside this photograph? -
pageWatch those wheels
Have you ever noticed the patterns in car wheel trims? These questions will make you look at car wheels in a different way! -
pageMaking maths: Indian window screen
Can you recreate this Indian screen pattern? Can you make up similar patterns of your own?
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problemCoke machine
Age14 to 16Challenge level
The coke machine in college takes 50 pence pieces. It also takes a certain foreign coin of traditional design...