Moving Mandalas
*The full written lesson was included the Back to School Bundle*
OBJECTIVE:
Use radial symmetry to create a unique animated mandala design.
VOCABULARY:
Mandala – Sanskrit word meaning “circle”.
Concentric circles – circles of different sizes that share the same axis or center point.
Radial Symmetry – Similar parts arranged around a central point.
ABOUT MANDALAS
The word mandala comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “circle.” A mandala is a circular design that uses radial symmetry to create patterns that radiate from a central point.
Mandalas are found in nature and throughout history in paintings, sculptures, and architecture. Mandalas are also a tool used for meditation and some cultures use mandalas for spiritual practices.
When you create your mandala, choose designs and shapes to reflect your feelings. This will make a mandala that is uniquely yours!
MATERIALS:
Paper
Pencil
Compass
Ruler
Protractor
Markers or Colored Pencils Smartphone or Tablet
TEACHING STRATEGY:
1. Place the point of a compass on the center of the paper and draw a circle.
2. Use the compass to create several concentric circles. Make sure the middle point is the same for all your circles.
3. Draw a vertical and horizontal line dividing your circles into quarters.
4. Use a protractor to mark 45 degrees in between your horizontal and vertical lines. This will create 8 sections for your mandala.
5. Fill in each section with repeating shapes to create a design using radial symmetry. Color in your mandala as desired.
Animate Your Mandala:
1. Take a photo of your colored mandala. Upload to an animation app like Pixel Loop.
2. Experiment with the different features to animate your mandala.
3. Download your video to save.
Continue the STEAM EXPERIENCE:
Science: Find examples of radial symmetry in nature. Technology: Animate your mandala.
Engineering: Use found objects or nature items to build a three- dimensional version of your mandala.
Arts: Create your own music to add to your animated video.
Math: Create a radial symmetry design to complete your mandala.