####Cube Model for (a+b)^3

Visual or physical models are not always necessary in learning algebra. Eventually, they will be too confusing to use. However, some students and adults alike (like me) do enjoy seeing the physical connections of abstract mathematics, such as the case of expanding (a+b)^3. After seeing the physical models, it is less likely they are going to write (a+b)^3 = a^3 +b^3.

In this design, a= 38mm, b =12mm, and the assembled cube is 50^mm. As a scaffold, I combined b^3 with the 3ab^2 into one piece to control the complexity. Of course, we all need to TALK about the pieces to understand what is meaning of each. Have fun!

Reference

Conway, John H., & Guy, Richard K. (1996). The book of numbers. New York, NY: Springer-Verlag.