Snowflake Math

Math might not be the first thing you think of when you see snow, but believe it or not, math helps us describe God’s handiwork in each tiny snowflake.

To start with, we can observe that the general shape of each flake is approximately the same. Snowflakes can be described by the six-sided shape we refer to as a hexagon.

Looking at the structure of water molecules and the angles (more math) there gives us a glimpse into why hexagons are formed.

Yet despite being the same shape, you’re not likely to find two identical snowflakes. What a wondrous variety God’s hid within snow!

We could also talk about the symmetry and patterns in snowflakes (more math concepts). And if we wanted to expand beyond the flakes themselves, we could talk about the temperature at which water freezes (which we describe using a number), at the altitudes of different types of clouds (which we use numbers to describe), etc.

Snowflakes are an example of how we use math to describe God’s creation…and in the process see His incredible design!

“Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, Which I have reserved against the time of trouble, against the day of battle and war?” Job 38:22-23

“Then Job answered the Lord, and said, I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” Job 42:1-6

[page_section template=’2′ position=’bottom’ padding_bottom=’on’ padding_top=’on’] Transform Your Math Class
Math can be a lot more fun (and make a lot more sense) when students understand why they’re learning what they’re learning and see it in context with real life and science. We offer curriculum and supplemental resources to help you transform math this year.
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