Year 7 Mathematicians Dissect Geometry at The Sydney Opera House

Last Tuesday, 25 eager Year 7 mathematicians visited the Sydney Opera House to participate in a workshop exploring the geometric principles of the world-famous building’s design. It was fascinating to learn about how the simplicity of a circle was the key to unlocking the design and construction constraints. Below is a reflection of the excursion from student Sissi Zheng.

‘We participated in the “Dissecting Geometry” activity at the Sydney Opera House and learned many new things about the history of the iconic design, and how the venue came to be what it is today, through the simple innovations by architects that built it, linking the curved designs back to the fundamentals of mathematics and geometry. Building upon those ideas, we worked together in groups to make our own models and designs of architectural buildings with the same concepts as the Sydney Opera House, then coming together to share our thoughts and processes. It was a highly collaborative, hands-on task, and communicating with others was enlightening; we were able to see our combined works of imaginations being built into tangible models. The instructors were all very helpful and supportive, creating a safe learning environment. I felt lucky to have the opportunity to be part of such a unique project, and it was certainly a memorable experience.’
– Sissi Zheng
Year 7 Student

– Alex Schroder
Mathematics Enrichment Teacher

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