Loonie

High school (ages 12+)
Mathematics & Numbers

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/loonie

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the primary function?Canadian one-dollar circulation coin
2. What is the year of introduction?1987
3. Why does the loonie have a loon on it?The loon is a bird that lives on Canadian lakes and rivers. It was chosen to show a symbol that many Canadians recognize. The bird is on the back side of the coin.
4. Why is the loonie not round?The loonie is shaped like an 11‑sided Reuleaux polygon. This shape is a curve that stays the same width all around. It helps the coin fit into machines and makes it easier to feel.

Reuleaux Polygon: A geometric shape formed by the intersection of three circular disks, resulting in a curve of constant width.
Metonymy: The substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing meant, e.g., 'the Crown' for the monarchy.
Numismatics: The study or collection of coins, paper money, and medals.
Effigy: A sculpted or represented reproduction of a person's head, typically on a coin or medal.