Unfold nets and calculate the surface area of triangular and rectangular pyramids in this step-by-step exploration activity.
[i]Answer these open ended questions on your own or with others to form deeper math connections.[/i]
What steps are used to find the surface area of a pyramid?
Consider the calculations for finding the surface area of a pyramid with a rectangular base and a pyramid with a triangular base. Are any of the calculations different? Explain your answer.
Consider the calculations for finding the surface area of a pyramid with an equilateral base and a pyramid with a right triangular base. Are any of the calculations different? Explain your answer.
Which measurements do you need to find the surface area of a pyramid?[br]
Do you ever need to know the height of the pyramid to find the surface area of a pyramid? If so, when do you need to know the height? Explain your answer.[br]