Class: Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3, JSS 3)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 9
Age: 14 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Mathematics
Curriculum Theme: Mathematics
Previous Lesson: Volume and Surface Areas of Cylinders and Cones
Topic: Construction (Part 1)
Subject Matter: Bisecting of line segments, Bisecting of angles, Constructing simple shapes
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain:
(a) Explain the meaning of construction in geometry.
(b) Describe and outline the steps for bisecting lines and angles. - Affective Domain:
(a) Appreciate the importance of accuracy and neatness in geometric constructions. - Psychomotor Domain:
(a) Bisect a line segment and an angle using a compass and ruler.
(b) Construct simple geometric shapes accurately. - Social Domain:
(a) Work cooperatively in pairs while performing construction tasks.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work for Junior Secondary Schools
- Math is Fun – Geometric Constructions
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Ruler
- Compass
- Protractor
- Whiteboard and markers
- Chart showing geometric construction steps
- Sample constructed shapes
Rationale for the Lesson
Construction skills help pupils develop accuracy, precision, logical thinking, and practical problem-solving abilities essential in geometry and technical drawing.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils already know basic geometric terms and have used rulers and compasses to draw lines, angles, and simple shapes.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Lesson Content
Construction – Bisecting Lines, Angles, and Shapes for JSS 3
Bisecting a Line Segment
A line segment is a straight path between two endpoints. To bisect means to divide it into two equal parts using a compass and ruler.
The following are the steps for bisecting a line segment:
- Draw the line segment AB.
- Place the compass on point A and draw an arc above and below the line.
- Without changing the compass width, place it on point B and draw another pair of arcs cutting the first arcs.
- Join the points of intersection to divide AB into two equal parts.
Bisecting an Angle
An angle is formed when two lines meet at a point called the vertex. To bisect an angle means to divide it into two equal angles.
The following are the steps for bisecting an angle:
- Draw angle ∠ABC.
- Place the compass on the vertex B and draw an arc cutting the two arms of the angle.
- From each cut point, draw two arcs that intersect within the angle.
- Draw a straight line from B through the intersection of the arcs to bisect the angle.
Constructing Simple Shapes
Simple shapes like triangles and quadrilaterals can be constructed using given lengths and angles.
Examples include:
- Constructing an equilateral triangle using equal sides.
- Constructing a square using right angles and equal sides.
- Constructing an isosceles triangle with two equal sides.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Explanation, Visual Aids, Group Work
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction (Set Induction)
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher shows a chart with different geometric constructions and asks pupils what tools are used to create them.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe and respond based on prior knowledge.
Learning Point: Pupils recall previous experience with geometry tools.
Step 2: Meaning of Construction
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the meaning of construction and outlines tools used.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and ask questions.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the meaning and purpose of construction.
Step 3: Bisecting Line Segments
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates how to bisect a line segment as shown in the board summary.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils practice bisecting a line segment.
Learning Point: Pupils learn accurate construction steps.
Step 4: Bisecting Angles and Constructing Shapes
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates angle bisection and constructing simple shapes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils attempt constructions in their notebooks.
Learning Point: Pupils apply construction principles.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to copy the board summary.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils write notes.
Learning Point: Pupils retain key points.
Step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- What does it mean to bisect a line segment?
- State the steps for bisecting an angle.
- Construct an equilateral triangle using a side of 5 cm.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer and perform tasks.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding.
Step 7: Conclusion
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summary
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the lesson and reinforces accuracy in construction.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen.
Learning Point: Pupils recall major points.
Lesson Keywords
- Construction – Drawing shapes using tools
- Bisect – Divide into two equal parts
- Angle – Space between two intersecting lines
- Arc – Part of a circle drawn with a compass
- Segment – Part of a line between two points
Differentiation
Provide additional support for slower learners through guided hand-over-hand practice; challenge fast learners with extra construction tasks.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Ensure pupils maintain accuracy and neatness; always check compass width before drawing arcs.

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