Michele Jastrzembski

H-Option Fall 2008

Technology in the Classroom

Topology: Things Aren’t What They Seem

Essential Questions: How does topology appear in the world around us?
Why is a möbius strip special?

Though rare that an elementary or middle school curriculum would include the topics of
möbius strips and topology, it is a really fascinating mathematical phenomenon and can be used
in conjunction with other subjects. Despite the study of topology having many higher level
concepts, it is surprisingly easy for younger students to grasp. Since they haven’t been exposed
to the strict rules of geometry to the extent that older students have, they are more open to the
concept of distortions. I have found that because investigating möbius strips is not your typical
arithmetic math activity, students, especially those that are kinesthetic or visual learners, are very
adept at the topic and get excited by this hands-on activity.
The movie is meant to be an interactive introduction to the concept of topology for upper
elementary or middle school students. It uses questioning techniques to get students thinking on
their own and then share with each other through active and cooperative learning. This
encourages critical thinking. Furthermore, the movie incorporates activities for various learning
styles: using playdough and models for the kinesthetic and tactile learner, close-ups for the visual
learners, and the audio from the movie for the auditory learner. Lastly, the movie can be simply
a starting point for group work, differentiated instruction, and assessment.
When using this movie in a classroom setting, the teacher should use it to facilitate
discussion. For example, when questions are asked or when the movie tells you to make a
prediction, pause the movie and have the students discuss and write down their answers (see
recommended worksheet). Have the students experiment with different distortions and as the
movie tells you to make a möbius strip and then to cut it, do it as the movie does. To follow-up
on the movie, the class should talk about how topology is used in life. For instance, the movie
mentions kicking off the sheets in morning but doesn’t say how this is topological. Then, the
discussion of topology can continue with more concrete topological concepts like Jordan Curves
and what is significant about the MC Escher paintings used in the credits. The movie is intended
to be adapted to best fit the needs of the classroom, the teacher, and the lesson.