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Learning Activity

Using Symmetry to Create Art

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

4

Overview

Symmetry Artist is an interactive painting activity that allows students to draw on an axis of reflective symmetry or rotational symmetry. Students can customize line style and color. The symmetrical art is printer friendly.

Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 4

MA19.4.29

Define a line of symmetry for a two-dimensional figure as a line across the figure such that the figure can be folded along the line into matching parts.

Unpacked Content

UP:MA19.4.29

Vocabulary

  • Symmetry
  • Two dimensional figure
  • Line of symmetry

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Characteristics of lines of symmetry.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Define a line of symmetry for a two-dimensional figure.
  • Identify and draw lines of symmetry for two-dimensional figures.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • a line of symmetry divides a shape into two parts such that when folded on the line, the two parts match.

Phase

During/Explore/Explain
After/Explain/Elaborate
Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives

Students will recognize lines of symmetry in two-dimensional figures. 

Students will draw lines of symmetry. 

Activity Details

1. Demonstrate the concept of symmetry by displaying images of symmetrical objects and by pointing them out around the room. Ask students to locate examples or give examples.

2. Distribute a handout asking students to draw a line of symmetry. These can be printed according to grade level at this site.

3. Now ask students to fold a piece of paper in half and try to make a symmetrical drawing using the fold as a line of symmetry.

4. After 4-5 minutes of drawing a symmetrical picture introduce students to Symmetry Artist. Point out the different features and ways to customize the drawing.

5. Students may create freely or they can be given a challenge. For example, "Students should write their name on a diagonal axis." or "Students should make a symmetrical flower using the rotational symmetry feature."

Assessment Strategies

Assessment Strategies

Assess understanding of symmetry using the handout and student's creations on the digital tool. 

Variation Tips

The Symmetry Art created by the students could be printed out and displayed. Students could be challenged to find the lines of symmetry in the artwork of other students.

Background and Preparation

Background / Preparation

The teacher should be familiar with Symmetry Artist.

To strengthen background knowledge of symmetry the teacher can show a PowerPoint based on grade level. A free age-appropriate PowerPoint can be found here.

 

Digital Tools / Resources

http://www.mathsisfun.com/geometry/symmetry-artist.html

Approved Date

Owner (Author)

smhellums
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