Patterns (symmetry) for Kindergarten |
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Symmetry - Leaves, Flowers, Seashells, Mirrors and Symmetry
Proficiency in: Independent investigation while introducing developing and reproducing continuing patterns followed by recording (written documentation in kept in a portfolio) Supports the development of reproducing and extending patterns. Introduces the concept of symmetry and beginning concepts of fractions. Terms to remember: “comparison, connection, and symmetry”. Materials needed: math manipulative box, chart paper, crayons and pencils, leaves of all sizes, flowers, seashells (especially sand dollars, conch shells, and clam shells), and an unbreakable mirror. Activity: Parent and child observe and analyze patterns in the real world while observing symmetry.
Duration: This lesson usually takes about 30 minutes. This experience should be practiced for a minimum of five school days, (Monday through Friday). Prepare for some reteaching time on the following Monday and Tuesday before transitioning into forming geometric designs using pattern blocks.
Model of teaching approach: Parent begins activity by cutting out a paper heart. Fold the heart in half. Ask the child what he or she might see if you hold the folded heart along side of the mirror. Be sure to give time for guesses. Now show the child that when you hold the mirror along the half of the heart you see a “whole” heart. Explain the term for this is symmetry. Now observe the symmetry of your seashells, leaves, and flowers.
Extended teaching approach: This specific lesson is wonderful for an outdoor field trip. Take the opportunity to do this math lesson outside with your child, bring a small notebook. This lesson is also another example of teaching across the curriculum. The observations your child makes bring are part of the scientific method.
Here are a few ideas for enjoyable reading material you can share with your child to support the main idea of the lesson as well as connecting the concept of reading throughout all subject materials.
1) Discovering Nature with Young Children, by Ingrid Chalufour, Karen Worth 2) What Do You Do with a Tail Like This?, by Robin Page, Steve Jenkins 3) Bones, Bones, Dinosaur Bones, by Byron Barton (Illustrator) 4) Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak 5) The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein
Mary Joy Lewis, MEd |
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