Abstract
Much mathematical education emphasises verbal communication, either teacher exposition or possibly group
discussion. Practical activities are often presented as “how to” instructions, and although they may have significant
potential for mathematical exploration the mathematics can easily become secondary. At a more advanced stage
the emphasis shifts to algebraic methods, which are generally so powerful that more visual approaches may be
undervalued. Although there are some resources available that are designed to stimulate a visual approach to
mathematics more would be welcome. The workshop will present an opportunity to explore some ideas and
challenges based around the concept of area with particular (but not exclusive) reference to triangles. The
challenges vary in difficulty: some could be used in primary education, others are more demanding.
