Vocabulary

Reflect on the role of vocabulary in geometry.

The importance of vocabulary in any subject cannot be stressed enough! Just as we learn the Spanish language in Spanish class, we must learn the Algebra language in Algebra class, and the Geometry language in Geometry class. I must admit, I did not do so well in my high school geometry class, nor have I ever taught it myself. Therefore, I feel somewhat like a beginner in this graduate course. I find myself trying to keep up during class discussions because I'm still trying to remember what "corresponding angle" means! Until I strengthen my knowledge of these geometric terms, I will always be behind. The same goes for our own students. Before we teach the concepts, we must be sure that they know and are comfortable with the vocabulary.