Google+Sketch+Up

=Google SketchUp=

What is it?
SketchUp is a 3D modeling program designed for architectural, civil, and mechanical engineers as well as filmmakers, game developers, and related professions. It also includes features to facilitate the placement of models in Google Earth. It is designed to be easier to use than other 3D CAD programs. (from Wikipedia)

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How can I use SketchUp in Math Education?
SketchUp can be used in math as much or as little as you'd like. Because of it's ease to use and vast capabilities

Teach math concepts Project based learning Measurement Exploratory lessons Cross curricular lessons

More specifically:


 * create models of buildings that can be inserted directly into Google Earth
 * use measurements create models
 * learn basic graph theory
 * explore perimeter, area, surface area, and volume (and their relationships) of any shape.
 * use colour and images to present information
 * make and justify problem solving decisions
 * design any sort of object (chair, building, etc.)

What about the Mathematical Processes?
it is obvious that SketchUp falls under the **Technology** process. What you may not have considered is how using SketchUp may address the other mathematical processes. **Visualization** is addressed because of the great ability to move around objects and visualize how, for example, different dimensions can change the overall shape of an object. **Communication** will be addressed if students are working together or if students are allowed to teach each other how to use the program. **Mental Math and Estimation** can be addressed easily if the teacher chooses to allow students to not use specific dimensions. **Problem Solving** is addressed constantly in SketchUp; it takes planning and preparation to get to a desired result. **Connections** are addressed if students are using math they have learned in class and applying it to creating an object, or if real objects are being represented in the program. **Reasoning** (inductive, deductive, proportional, spatial, and analogical) can be addressed depending on what the teacher chooses to use it for; for example, proportional reasoning is used when creating scale models, deductive reasoning can be used to prove Pythagorean's theorem, and spatial reasoning is always being used since everything is in a 3D space.

How can SketchUp promote cross-curricular learning?
//Please add YOUR ideas here!//

Where can I get it?
SketchUp

How can I get SketchUp //Pro// ($495) for free?
SketchUp Pro

=Where can I find more resources?=

3DVinci SketchUp Teacher Guide

Official Google SketchUp Video Tutorials

SketchUp Books

"Follow Me" Tool Tutorial

Sketchucation

A simple house in SketchUp
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