Pix Brix Curriculum: Pentomino Puzzle Logic

Subject Areas

  • Math (Geometry, Spatial Awareness)
  • Logic & Critical Thinking
  • Visual Arts / Design
  • STEAM Education

Learning Objectives

  • Recognize and manipulate pentomino shapes (five-square polyominoes).
  • Explore symmetry, rotation, translation, and tiling principles.
  • Use logical reasoning to solve spatial puzzles and shape-fitting challenges.
  • Build 2D puzzle shapes with Pix Brix based on visual outlines.
  • Design and solve custom pentomino puzzles using tactile modeling.

Materials Used

  • Pix Brix (assorted colors)
  • Printed Pentomino Puzzle Worksheets (download above)
  • Pencil or dry erase markers
  • Graph paper or baseplate (optional for custom puzzles)

Lesson Breakdown

Lesson 1: Intro to Pentominoes

  • Review all 12 pentomino shapes.
  • Demonstrate rotation and flipping with Pix Brix models.
  • Students build each shape by following worksheet reference.

Lesson 2: Shape Matching Practice

  • Use first worksheet to match identical shapes in different orientations.
  • Recreate each shape with Pix Brix.
  • Practice shape naming and orientation language (e.g., flip, mirror, rotate).

Lesson 3: Puzzle Challenge – Dog Silhouette

  • Attempt to fill the dog-shaped outline using provided pentominoes.
  • Students test different combinations using Pix Brix physically.
  • Discuss multiple solution strategies.

Lesson 4: Puzzle Challenge – Butterfly Silhouette

  • Use second silhouette puzzle with more complexity.
  • Students work in pairs to complete the butterfly with correct shapes.
  • Optional: Set a timer to create a fun logic competition.

Lesson 5: Create-Your-Own Puzzle (Extension)

  • Students design their own silhouette using graph paper or Pix Brix baseplates.
  • Other students attempt to solve them using Pix Brix pentominoes.
  • Encourages creativity, logic, and visual planning.

Assessment

  • Accuracy of shape construction using Pix Brix.
  • Completion of puzzle worksheets with logical placement of pieces.
  • Participation in class discussions and puzzle-solving activities.
  • Optional: Photo documentation of student builds.

ESA Alignment

This curriculum uses Pix Brix as a hands-on educational tool supporting logical reasoning, geometry, and spatial analysis. The lessons are directly linked to ESA-approved learning objectives in STEAM and mathematics and demonstrate a valid “educational purpose” for Pix Brix as a supplemental material.

Submission Instructions

  • Include this curriculum plan in your ESA application or reimbursement request.
  • Attach receipts for Pix Brix purchases.
  • Submit any optional photo documentation or student worksheets (if required).
  • Upload all materials via ClassWallet under “Supplemental Materials.”