5 minute lesson
What in the World is a Hexaflexagon
What if you could create a flat shape with three sides or a flat shape with six sides?
Impossible, right? Well, maybe not when you enter the world of hexaflexagons. Discovered almost by accident, these remarkable shapes are part origami, part mathematics, and part magic (well they seem magical anyway).
To explain the remarkable world of hexaflexagons, how you can make your own, and give you an understanding of these wild shapes we turn to Vihart, a great YouTuber making the world of mathematics approachable and fascinating!
Why It Matters
What kinds of fascinating things are just waiting out there to be discovered as we find ways to experiment and explore on our own? Experimentation allows us to find the things that fascinate us. Whether or not we head out with the intention of discovering something new, experimenting, and even a little play, can help us find new solutions, and in this case new shapes!
Mathematics allows us to not only look at the world with a greater understanding, but it also helps us experiment with what’s possible. When we do a calculation in class or use math to understand the dimensions of something before we build it, mathematics allows us to experiment with ideas.
Let's Talk About It
Vihart
Vihart is a channel that explores the way our lives interact with mathematics. Her videos explain math concepts in fun and engaging ways.