21st Century Learning

Games and a Virtual Field Trip Make Math Fun for Pi Day

• By Christopher Piehler
• 03/13/15

Every March 14, math fans celebrate Pi Day, but this Saturday will be numerologically unique. On March 14, 2015, at 9:26:53 A.M. and P.M., the date and time will reflect the first 10 digits of π.  

To help educators celebrate with their students, PBS Learning Media is highlighting three pi-related math games that teach students about triangles and circles: Knights of Pi, Dunk Tank and Pizza Pi.

Discovery Education, meanwhile, celebrated Pi Day on Friday with a live virtual field trip to the laboratories of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the federal agency in charge of developing and applying technology, measurements and standards. The free event featured mathematicians, scientists and engineers demonstrating how π is used to solve everyday problems.

During this 30-minute virtual field trip, students got a behind-the-scenes look at the NIST facilities, including its nanotechnology section, 3D lab, fire research division and underground labs. Students heard from a variety of experts who discussed the integral role π plays in the operation of the everyday products and services including skyscrapers, jetliners, computers, video games, cell phones and cars.