Nature, often perceived as chaotic, reveals a hidden order when viewed through a mathematical lens. The “Fibonacci Garden: Mathematics in the Plant World” DVD explores this fascinating connection, demonstrating how mathematical principles can enhance our understanding and appreciation of the natural world. This guide will delve into the companion workbook, “A Beginner’s Guide To Constructing The Universe Activity Book Volume 3: Fibonacci Numbers and the Golden Mean,” and how it complements the DVD in unlocking the mathematical secrets hidden within plants.
The DVD, “Fibonacci Garden: Mathematics in the Plant World,” shows how plants, from the simplest flowers to the tallest trees, embody mathematical concepts such as the Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Mean.
Unveiling the Mathematics of Plants
The DVD highlights the inherent mathematical order within the seemingly random chaos of nature. It emphasizes that plants aren’t simply organic forms; they are living embodiments of mathematical principles. The DVD explores:
- Nature’s Alphabet: The presence of fundamental shapes like circles, triangles, pentagons, and spirals.
- Fibonacci Sequence: How the structure and growth of plants are governed by the Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Mean.
- Shared Properties: The commonalities between the Fibonacci Sequence and the plant world, including recursive growth, interconnectedness, dynamic balance, fractal self-similarity, and recurring cycles.
The DVD also explains the history of the Fibonacci Sequence and presents its mathematics, even for beginners, through number theory and puzzles.
“A Beginner’s Guide to Constructing The Universe Activity Book Volume 3: Fibonacci Numbers and the Golden Mean”
The “Constructing The Universe” Activity Books, especially Volume 3, serve as hands-on companions to the DVD, providing practical activities and exercises to reinforce the concepts presented. It is designed to enhance the learning experience by providing interactive lessons in mathematics involving ordinary plants, as well as suggestions for turning mathematics into art.
Here are some screenshots from the DVD, reflecting classroom activities:
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Example of how a classroom can use the “Constructing the Universe” teachings.
Another classroom visualization.
Visual aid to help learn.
The Curriculum
The “Constructing The Universe Activity Book Volume 3” allows students to explore:
- Arithmetic: Basic calculation exercises related to plant growth patterns.
- Fractions and Decimals: Understanding proportions and ratios in leaf arrangements and flower structures.
- Algebra: Applying algebraic principles to model plant growth.
- Geometry: Analyzing the geometric shapes found in plants.
The Activity Books translate mathematical concepts into visual and tangible forms, offering a comprehensive learning experience for students of all levels.
Who is Michael S. Schneider?
Michael S. Schneider, the author of “A Beginner’s Guide To Constructing The Universe” and the accompanying Activity Books, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this field. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Mathematics Education, he has dedicated his career to making mathematics accessible and engaging for all. He also teaches “Mathematical Ideas For Artists” at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. He has created a “Constructing The Universe” classroom dedicated to teaching about the fascinating mathematics of nature.
Integrating Mathematics and Art
The Fibonacci Garden DVD and the “Constructing The Universe” Activity Books go beyond rote memorization and encourage students to see mathematics as a creative and beautiful force in the world around them.
Mathematics presented in plant forms.
Visualization of math.
By exploring the mathematics of nature, students develop a deeper understanding of both mathematics and the natural world. The DVD and activity books offer:
- Visible Mathematics: Making abstract mathematical concepts concrete through plant examples.
- Real-World Applications: Connecting mathematics to real-world phenomena, increasing its relevance and engagement.
- Creative Exploration: Encouraging students to express their mathematical understanding through art.
Additional Resources
In addition to the “Fibonacci Garden” DVD and Activity Books, Michael S. Schneider offers other resources for exploring the mathematics of nature, including the DVD “A Journey From 1 to 12:“
This collection of resources provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the mathematical principles underlying the natural world.
Conclusion
The “Fibonacci Garden: Mathematics in the Plant World” DVD and the “A Beginner’s Guide to Constructing The Universe Activity Book Volume 3: Fibonacci Numbers and the Golden Mean” offer a unique and engaging way to explore the fascinating relationship between mathematics and nature. By combining visual learning with hands-on activities, these resources empower students to see the beauty and order hidden within the seemingly chaotic world around them. Educators will find this a valuable resource for developing lessons in mathematics involving ordinary plants, as well as suggestions for turning mathematics into art. Take the first step and unlock the mathematical mysteries of the Fibonacci Garden!
