Group A

Mensuration is covered this week and we were introduce to the Cavalieri's principle. In school, teachers usually do not explain how the formulas are derived or related to students as it is perceived to be too difficult for them to understand. Many times, students were just told to memorise the formulas and apply straight. It is good that we are introduce to Cavalieri's principle and we will finally be able to answer students when they ask how did all the formulas comes about. Though I agree that the principle is hard to them to understand and appreciate at their level, it is still good to bring it in as an introduction to the topic. Perhaps more 3D animations may help in enhancing understanding.

I found 2 sites that provide some java animations on the Cavalieri's principle. With it, students no longer have to try hard to visualise the diagrams, which I had a hard time too.

http://www.jimloy.com/cindy/cavalier.htm

http://www.matematicasvisuales.com/english/html/history/cavalieri/cavalierisphere.html