Mathematics is often seen as a subject limited to numbers and formulas, but the activity-based learning approach followed in our 9th class at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani has changed this perception entirely. Through various classroom activities, Mathematics became an engaging and meaningful subject where learning happened through observation, participation and practical understanding.
One of the most interesting activities we performed was on the properties and different parts of a circle. Using a compass, ruler, decorative items like colourful pens, tapes etc. and also by cutting and pasting different colourful shapes, we drew circles and explored concepts such as radius, diameter, chords, arcs and angles subtended by different parts of the circle. Instead of merely memorizing them, we have verified them by measuring angles and lengths and also by representing them in our practical notebook using our own creativity.
There were also some other enriching activities like we have understood Number System by making flow charts, Venn diagram and family tree where we have linked the different types of numbers with our own life. Related Number System with human values and attitudes & learnt various life skills. We have also verified the Algebraic Identities by paper cutting and pasting activity, and one activity was based on the nets of three-dimensional figures like cube, cuboid, cylinder, cone and sphere. By cutting and folding paper nets, we all were able to visualize how three-dimensional shapes are formed from two-dimensional shapes and how we can easily find Area & Volume of 3D shapes by visualization. These activities made everything easier to understand – Number System, Algebraic Identities, Factorization, Coordinate Geometry, Properties of Circles, Cyclic Quadrilateral, faces, edges, vertices & Surface Area, and Volume of three-Dimensional Objects.
By working on circles and 3-D shapes, we have improved our visualization power, logical thinking etc. These activities have also made learning interactive and enjoyable for me. Group work encouraged discussion, cooperation, and logical reasoning. I realized that learning by doing improves understanding, boosts confidence and develop problem solving skills and creativity.
In conclusion, activity-based learning in Mathematics has helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. Such innovative methods make the subject interesting and ensure better conceptual clarity. I believe that my experience with these activities has deepened my interests in Mathematics and inspired me to approach the subject with greater interest and confidence.
“Finally, I want to express my sincere gratitude to my school, Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani, and Principal Mrs. Achala Verma, National Awardee which always gives us space to use our creativity and Innovations. Special thanks to my Mathematics teacher, Mrs. Savitri Dhayal for her dedication and cooperation which makes the classroom feel like a space for discovery rather than just study. Because of her belief in us, I’ve moved beyond memorizing math to truly loving it. This experience has left a lasting impact on how I approach challenges.”
Ms. Akhansha Banik
Class IX
Birla Balika Vidyapeeth Pilani, Rajasthan
Mentored by
Mrs. Savitri Dhayal
Maths Teacher
Head of Mathematics Department
Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pilani
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