A simple geometric substitution leads to a jagged fractal much like a coastline
In this exercise, students learn to transform a simple shape into a complex fractal curve by repeating the same operation at smaller and smaller scales and track changes to the perimeter of the object at each step. The resulting shape is highly complex, has a large perimeter and is roughly similar to natural fractals like coastlines, snowflakes and mountain ranges.
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Ages: 3rd – 12th grades
Materials:
Pencil
Koch Curve and Coastlines worksheet
Scissors
Time:
Approx 45 minutes
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