NY Next Generation Math GEO-G.CO.13

MathGrades 9–12Make geometric constructions.

The Standard

Make and justify the constructions for inscribing an equilateral triangle, a square and a regular hexagon in a circle.

New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students construct an equilateral triangle, square, and regular hexagon inside a circle. They justify why each construction produces equal sides, required angles, and vertices on the circle.

What Mastery Looks Like

The student completes each compass-and-straightedge construction accurately and preserves construction marks. The justification links radii, perpendicular bisectors, or repeated arcs to regularity.

Common Misconceptions

Students may estimate vertex spacing or erase the arcs that justify the construction. They may prove the figure is regular without showing every vertex lies on the circle.

How to Assess It

Give a blank circle and construction tools. Ask students to inscribe one assigned polygon and write two sentences justifying its side or angle relationships.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Use compasses and straightedges to inscribe all three polygons on separate paper circles.

  2. Ask why stepping one radius around a circle produces a regular hexagon.

  3. Play construction-order scramble with diagrams and steps for each inscribed polygon.

  4. Design a circular tile or emblem using one justified inscribed construction.

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