A math model of conic sections - a cone cut into sections to show hyperbola, ellipse and parabola.

My math Algebra II teacher taught us about conic sections last year and I thought it would be useful to have a 3D printed physical model of the different sections of a cone.

Objectives: This model illustrates the concept of conic sections. Students can view and interact with the physical model to help them understand things like hyperbolas, parabolas and ellipses.

Audiences: High algebra and precalculus school students

Preparation: Students will need to know a fair level of algebra and some introduction to conic sections in order to understand what the model represents

Steps:

1. Idea - My math Algebra II teacher taught us about conic sections last year and I thought it would be useful to have a 3D printed physical model of the different sections of a cone.
2. Design - I used Blender to build the model

Results:
Students will have a physical and interactive model illustrating the concept of conic sections.