Middle school classroom explorations of polyhex and polyomino fitting puzzles

In this paper, we share our experience of geometric and algebraic explorations of the puzzle ‘A-Puzzle-A-Day’ and its variations with middle school students as a part of our weekly online STEM program. The puzzle consists of a set of pieces and a board with calendar dates. The goal is to use the puzzle as a starter activity in the classrooms and eventually lead the class to explore the symmetry and algebra of polyomino and polyhex pieces. As a part of the STEM program, the puzzle is going to 1000+ schools in India along with 80+ other engaging models/puzzles.