New manipulative toys feature educational and creative options in 3D model building-from puzzle solving and geometric explorations to molecular bonding

The Jenetic Jigsaw Company is introducing three new construction kits that use just two polygon types-the square and the equilateral triangle. Both shapes have integral, edge-mounted hinge elements that permit two, three, or four polygons to hinge together on any of their edges; or multiple polyhedra to hinge face-to-face or edge-to-edge. From these two basic polygons flow a cornucopia of educational and artistic possibilities that help to promote creativity, spatial thinking, and problem solving while illustrating important concepts in math and science.

Bellingham, Wa (PRWEB) March 25, 2004 -- The Jenetic Jigsaw Company is introducing three new construction kits that use just two polygon types-the square and the equilateral triangle. Both shapes have integral, edge-mounted hinge elements that permit two, three, or four polygons to hinge together on any of their edges; or multiple polyhedra to hinge face-to-face or edge-to-edge. From these two basic polygons flow a cornucopia of educational and artistic possibilities that help to promote creativity, spatial thinking, and problem solving while illustrating important concepts in math and science.

The basic Puzzle Square kit combines 3D puzzle solving with unlimited building choices and is recommended for ages 10 and older. Some are simple, some are complex, some are rigid, and others transform, pump, or rotate," says the inventor, Jim Swann. The kit includes an 8-page booklet that illustrates 24 constructs, while the company website illustrates 76 constructs, including ferries wheels, globes, helixes, bridges, birds, and other possibilities.

The Geometry Kit presents a study in building and analyzing complex polyhedra and includes a study of all-space-filling polyhedra. This kit is designed for high school use in grades nine through eleven and includes a 24-page color illustrated How to Build" booklet and a 35-page workbook.

The Crystal/Chemistry Kit augments the Geometry Kit with a hands-on introduction to Face Centered Cubic (FCC) and hexagonal crystals, and to elements of molecular bonding. This kit is also designed for high school use and includes a How to Build" geometry workbook with a section on crystals and organic molecules.

All three kits include accessories:
·Straws of different lengths and diameters add color, reiterate 3-D constructs, discover inscribed polyhedra, and help demonstrate various geometric/chemical functions. They also add a creative element to the Puzzle Squares.
·Triangles have integral corner projections designed to receive short, flexible plastic tubes that permit linking one triangle to three others, or one polyhedra to many others. These possibilities are illustrated in the kit booklets and on the company website.
·The Crystal/Chemistry Kit includes small plastic balls that simulate nuclei or small atoms. They can be suspended and held in place with standard rubber bands. See examples in the kit booklet and on the company website.

All kits can be ordered from the company website at http://www.jeneticjigsaw.com. The basic Puzzle Square Kit comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and sells for $32.00 U.S (includes 48 squares, instructional booklet, two dozen straws, a storage/display box, and shipping within the U.S. and Canada). The Geometry Kit and Chemistry Kit are available for loan only to teachers and qualified homeschoolers.

Jenetic Jigsaw squares and triangles are made from flexible and durable plastic in two colors for each type. Translucent white squares are also available on special order in lots of 36 and 48. Hinging configurations and flexible corner linkages are patented and all parts and assemblages are done in Bellingham, Washington, USA.