Unit 4: Geometry

Most buildings require a large amount of planning before any construction begins. Even a modest construction project, like a shed, will probably not turn out properly if time is not taken to plan. Blueprints, or building plans, include a large amount of information, much of it related to lengths and angles.

Geometry is the study of lines, angles, and polygons and the relationships between them. In this unit you will focus on various strategies that can be used to determine unknown lengths and angles using other known lengths and angles.

Lesson 4.1: Parallel Lines and Angles

The phrase "plumb, square, and level" is used regularly in construction. The use of this phrase in the construction of a building means that everything is either parallel or perpendicular to a level surface. When everything is square, plumb, and level, the building has a clean appearance and is easy to work with in future construction steps, such as installing drywall, baseboards, etc.

This lesson will focus on parallel lines. When a set of parallel lines is crossed by another line (a transversal), a number of angle properties become apparent. You will prove and then use some of these properties to solve problems.