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Bisector Constructions

Follow the directions to complete the two constructions below

Constructing a Perpendicular Bisector

  1. Use the “Circle with Center” tool to draw a circle with center A to B (click on A, then click on B).
  2. Now draw a circle with center B to A so that you create two overlapping circles.
  3. Use the “Intersection” tool to label the intersection of the circles (do this by clicking on one circle and then the other). It will label intersection points C and D.
  4. Use the “Segment” tool to draw a line segment from C to D.
  5. Verify your perpendicular bisector. Select “Perpendicular Bisector.” Click on A and then on B. The line should align perfectly to the segment you drew from C to D. If it doesn’t, observe where there might have been inaccuracies in your construction and try again.

Constructing a Perpendicular Bisector

Constructing an Angle Bisector

  1. Use the “Circle with Center tool to draw a small circle with center A. It needs to intersect both sides of the angle, but should not be too large or too small.
  2. Use the "Intersect" tool to label the intersection of the angle sides and the circle (click on segment AC and the circle to get point E, then click on segment AB and the circle to get point F).
  3. Draw a circle with center E to F and then a circle with center F to E so that you have two overlapping circles.
  4. Use the “Intersect” tool to label the point of intersection of the two circles you just drew (click once on each circle and it will label points G and H .
  5. Use the “Segment” tool to draw a line segment from A through H and G.
  6. Verify your angle bisector. Select “Angle bisector.” Trace the angle by clicking on point C, then A, then B. The line should align perfectly to the segment you drew from A to G. If it doesn’t, observe where there might have been inaccuracies in your construction and try again.

Constructing an Angle Bisector

Reflection Questions:

  1. How are the methods for constructing a perpendicular bisector of a line segment with a compass and with technology the same? How are they different?
  2. How are the methods for bisecting an angle with a compass and with technology the same? How are they different?
  3. Which method do you prefer and why?
  4. What do you think some advantages and disadvantages of doing constructions with physical tools versus technology are?
  5. Include a screenshot of each of your constructions above with your submission.