Lesson Plan #:AELP-INT0069

Symmetry in Life Around Us

An Educator's Reference Desk Lesson Plan

Authors; School or Affiliation:
Debbie King; Pine Knot Middle School
Liz Staffey; Pine Knot Middle School
Clay Gibson; Oneida Elementary School
Endorsed By: K.Dei-Ofori-Attah.PhD Assistant Professor, Cumberland College, Williamsburg, KY

Date: 1994

Grade Level(s): 5, 6, 7, 8

Subject(s):

Overview: The learner will become acquainted with symmetry and asymmetry. The learner will look at shapes and items around them and decide whether it asymmetrical or symmetrical. Symmetry is all around us in nature.

Purpose: To teach symmetry and asymmetry to special education, art, and math portfolio students.

Objectives:

1. Students will work in groups of two.

2. Students will identify lines of symmetry.

3. Students will identify whether or not objects such as leaves, squares, or other shapes are symmetrical or asymmetrical

Activities/Procedures:
The teacher will provide objects to use so the students will be able to identify types of symmetry or asymmetry. For example, leaves and other geometric shapes and contour drawings of human beings will be used and supplied. The teacher will divide up the class into groups of two and discuss what symmetry and asymmetry are. The groups will then work together and decide whether the shapes are symmetrical or asymmetrical. The students will be given packets of assorted shapes by the teacher.

Tying It All Together: During the next class period the students will discuss their findings with the rest of the class and tell how they come to their conclusion about their work.