Tarsia Puzzle: An Interactive Activity for the Middle School Mathematics Classroom

Abstract

Tarsia Formulator is a software package that enables teachers to create and customize engaging mathematical jigsaw puzzles to fit into their instruction. From arithmetic to calculus content, students have engaged in learning mathematics using this instructional practice. The goal of the activity is to assemble the puzzle so that a particular shape will be formed. Teachers design the puzzle to support specific learning objectives and student’s problem solve to match questions and answers which appear on different cards. This Curriculum Project presents Tarsia Puzzles designed to support the instruction and learning of middle school mathematics.