Modular Arithmetic with Reflections Geometry Art Project

Students will create an art design based on a modular number system that only has 5, 6 or 7 numbers using addition, multiplication, subtraction, or division table. Students will create a number table based on the mathematical operation selected, assign each number a pattern, use the table to create an interesting design using reflections in one quadrant and then reflect the design three times. I have used this project off and on in an Honors Geometry class over the past 20 years. Although I teach an honors class, it could be used in a traditional geometry class as well as other math courses. You might even want to take the art aspect out of the project and just practice the modular tables with students.

Modular number systems are an introduction into the branch of mathematics called Number Theory. The best way to understand modular arithmetic is to think about a clock in which the face only has 12 numbers on it but there are 24 hours in a day. When the time changes from 12 pm to 1 pm, the clock starts over instead of changing from 12 pm to 13 pm, so 1 is equal to 13, 2 equals 14 and so on. This is a mod 12 number system and only the numbers 1 through 12 exist.

Included with your download are the directions on how to use this project in class, the rubric that I give students when I assign the project, pictures of actual student projects that were submitted, the blank paper for students to use to do their project, blank paper for you to use in class to demonstrate the project to students, and other things that would be helpful in completing the project.

Please don't hesitate to email me if you have any questions about the project.

Thank you for choosing my products. I do hope you will find them helpful and fun to use in class. Check out my store for other math projects and games, HS Math Fun with Practice. Enjoy!