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Geometric Kaleidoscopes

Create a circular symmetric design using vibrant colors to create a kaleidoscope effect.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Ruler

Steps

  • Step 1

    Discuss the effect created when light falls on a mirror and is reflected back onto another mirror. In a kaleidoscope there are usually two (or sometimes three) mirrors facing each other in a tube. Between the mirrors are colorful objects such as bits of colored plastic or glass. The angles produced by the mirrors that are placed in a 360-degree circle will reflect wedges of symmetrical color when you look into the tube.

  • Step 2

    Ask students to trace a large circle on a piece of paper. Have them use a ruler and draw lines to divide and subdivide the circle into eight wedges (as they might cut a pizza). Have them create a colorful design and patterns making each wedge the same so they appear symmetrical.

  • Step 3

    When the art is complete, students can cut out the decorated circle and mount it on poster board.

Standards

MATH: Create models that demonstrate math concepts and attend to precision.

SCI: Ask questions about the features of phenomena observed and conclusions drawn from investigations or models.

SCI: Develop a model to describe that light reflecting from objects and entering the eye allows objects to be seen.

Adaptations

"Kaleidoscope" is from the Greek words "kalos" meaning beautiful, "eidos" meaning shape, and "skopos" meaning watcher. Ask students to investigate other common words that have Greek origins, such as "acrobat," "dinosaur," and "music."

Challenge students to create their own kaleidoscope using a recycled paper towel tube, Mylar or mirrored sheets to create a triangular prism, and colorful objects. There are great tutorials online to use as reference.