Shape 

Copyright David & Cynthia Thomas, 2009

 

Visualizing 3-Dimensional Objects--Challenge: What Can You Build With 36 Cubes?

 

Using 36 uniform cubes (ignoring color differences), create all possible rectangular boxes (e.g., 1x1x36, 1x2x18, etc.).  In each case, record the length, width, height, and surface area in a table (See Table 6.1). 

·        Why do all of the prisms have the same volume? 

·        Which prism has the maximum (exposed) surface area?  Why?

·        Which prism has the minimum surface area?  Why?

 

Length

Width

Height

Surface Area

36

1

1

 

18

2

1

 

Etc.

 

 

 

Table 6.1: How Many Boxes?