Transformations in 3D: How AMSI approaches new concepts in the ICE-EM textbooks - MathsTalk by AMSI Schools | Lyssna här

Transformations in 3D: How AMSI approaches new concepts in the ICE-EM textbooks Episode summary

Three-dimensional coordinates and transformations are a significant addition to the Year 8 mathematics curriculum—but how do we introduce them without making 3D geometry feel unnecessarily abstract? In this episode of MathsTalk, AMSI Schools’ Leanne McMahon explores the thinking behind the new Transformations in 3D chapter she authored for the fourth edition of ICE-EM Mathematics Year 8. Beginning with students’ existing understanding of 2D coordinates and transformations, Leanne looks at how teachers can build towards ordered triples, coordinate planes and transformations in three-dimensional space. She discusses the value of dynamic geometry software such as GeoGebra, practical approaches for developing spatial reasoning, and real-world applications including drones, robotics, gaming, animation, architecture, 3D printing and navigation.

AMSI ICE-EM Mathematics textbooks

The fourth edition of ICE-EM Mathematics covers Years 5–10 and has been updated for Australian Curriculum Mathematics Version 9.0 and Victorian Curriculum Mathematics Version 2.0. The new editions include additional digital resources, video explanations, written solutions and connections with AMSI Calculate and AMSI Careers resources.

Explore the ICE-EM Mathematics series https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

ICE-EM Mathematics Fourth Edition – Year 8 https://schools.amsi.org.au/2026/03/10/ice-em-mathematics-third-edition-year-8/

Order ICE-EM Mathematics from Cambridge University Press & Assessment https://www.cambridge.org/au/education/australia-subject/mathematics/ice-em-mathematics-5-10-4th-edition

Year 8 curriculum: position and location in three dimensions

The Australian and Victorian Curricula Mathematics content description VC2M8SP03 asks students to describe the position and location of three-dimensional objects using different representations, including a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system and dynamic geometry software or other digital tools. Its elaborations include drones, 3D printing, virtual maps, multistorey car parks and the construction of objects in a 3D coordinate system.

Victorian Curriculum Mathematics 2.0 – VC2M8SP03 https://victoriancurriculum.vcaa.vic.edu.au/Search?q=VC2M8SP03

GeoGebra and 3D geometry

GeoGebra’s free 3D Calculator allows students to plot points and objects in three-dimensional space, manipulate the viewing perspective, construct planes and solids, and explore mathematical transformations dynamically.

Open the GeoGebra 3D Calculator https://www.geogebra.org/3d?lang=en_AU

GeoGebra 3D Calculator – help and overview https://help.geogebra.org/hc/en-us/articles/8493632359069-3D-Calculator

Learn GeoGebra 3D – official tutorial A guided introduction to the 3D Calculator, including solids, rotations, cross-sections and other 3D constructions. https://www.geogebra.org/m/aWhYSpvy

GeoGebra apps and downloads Includes the Calculator Suite, Geometry app and 3D Calculator. https://www.geogebra.org/download?lang=en-AU

GeoGebra transformation resources An interactive collection exploring translations, reflections, rotations and dilations. https://www.geogebra.org/m/TReQvk73

Upcoming: AMSI Industry Day for Teachers – Albury-Wodonga

AMSI’s next Industry Day for Teachers will be held on Thursday 10 September 2026 at La Trobe University’s Albury-Wodonga Campus.

This free professional learning event is designed for secondary mathematics and STEM teachers and careers advisers from regional Victoria and southern New South Wales. The day connects teachers with tertiary educators and industry professionals to explore where mathematics is being used in the workforce and the diverse pathways available to students.

Victorian high school teachers attending the event can also apply for one of a limited number of $500 CRT/travel bursaries.

Albury-Wodonga event details https://amsi.org.au/events/event/industry-day-for-teachers-la-trobe-albury-wodonga/

AMSI Industry Day for Teachers – program, speakers and registration https://amsi.org.au/amsi-industry-day-for-teachers/

Proudly supported by Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments provides Australian mathematics teachers with classroom technology, curriculum-aligned activities, teaching resources and professional learning opportunities. Its Australian Teacher Resource Centre includes free classroom activities and assessment resources for Years 7–10, as well as webinars, tutorials and professional development.

Texas Instruments Australia – Teacher Resource Centre https://education.ti.com/en-au/teachers

Australian Curriculum Nspired – classroom activities and resources https://education.ti.com/en-au/australiancurriculumnspired/aus-nz/home

Texas Instruments Australia https://education.ti.com/en-au/