Geometric Optic Spinner
Investigate how the eyes and brain work together then create your own optical illusions.
1. Our brain is always trying to make sense of what we see. Research the process of sight. Examine the path that light rays travel as they are reflected from an object and reach the lens in your eyes. Learn more about the flexibility of the eye's lens that enables you to focus on things near and far, as well as to see things that you are not focusing on. Study how light hits the screen-like retina, and how that message is sent to the brain via the optic nerve.
2. This elaborate system of seeing can be tricked and manipulated by optical illusions. Find information about the role of the brain in optical illusions.
3. To create your own optical illusion, cut a plate-size circle from a sheet of acetate with Crayola® Scissors. Trace the circle on construction paper.
4. Using Crayola Gel Markers, draw a geometric pattern on one side of the acetate. Use a straight edge to draw precise lines. The lines may be filled in or thicker, curved or straight, but they must all be part of a set pattern.
5. Within the traced circle on the construction paper, draw a different geometric, repeating pattern with the same precision.
6. Align the two circles, with the acetate on top. Poke a brass paper fastener through the middle of both sheets. Twist the acetate and watch the optical distortions happen before your eyes.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.
- Exchange Geometric Optic Spinners with classmates. Which designs are most effective? Which are less dazzling? Why?
- Study more about the scientific principles underlying optical distortion. Determine which effect your artwork is employing--the Zollner or Moire. The Zollner Effect makes straight lines appear to bend if they intersect with or are seen against a background of curved lines or lines drawn at a different angle. The Moire Effect happens when two patterns are superimposed.
- Study the artwork of M.C. Escher. Identify the many optical tricks he used in his woodblock prints.
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