Tangram Teasers

1. Tangrams can help students learn geometric terms and while also investigating spatial relationships. Start them off with an introduction using triangles and squares using colorful Crayola® Color Switchers™ Markers. If this product is not available, Crayola Washable Markers can be substituted.
2. Use Crayola Scissors to cut out six 4 in. (10.16 cm) squares of white construction paper.
3. Create a design using Crayola Washable Markers on each square.
4. Use Crayola Scissors to cut out triangles and squares with white construction paper. Vary the sizes of white triangles and squares: ½ in. (1.27 cm), 1 in. (2.54 cm), 2 in. (5.08 cm).
5. Arrange the 4 in. (10.16 cm) squares with designs on a piece of Crayola Construction Paper and glue in place.
6. Arrange the various white triangles and squares on each of the designed squares.

MATH: Reason with shapes and their attributes.

MATH: Analyze, compare, create, and compose shapes.

MATH: Generate and analyze patterns.

VA: Students will investigate, plan and work through materials and ideas to make works of art and design.

VA: Students demonstrate an understanding that creative thinking skills transfer to all aspects of life.

Expand the lesson plan to include all seven tangram pieces and have students create a puzzle. Use geometric names to describe each shape: vertices, sides, congruent sides, and congruent angles.

Students can research the history of tangrams as it relates to Chinese culture.

Students can go online and solve tangram puzzles.

Classroom resources include: Grandfather Tang’s Story by Anne Tompert and Tangram Magician by Lisa Campbell Ernst.