Geometry with Spiral Art

 Mastering Math

We've successfully avoided plastic toys, but I admit to caving on this Spiral Art Kit at the dollar store.

Whomever designed this toy (we had them as kids) is beyond clever! 

A simple enough concept, but brilliant in it's design.

It's a fun introduction to geometry. 

Spirals are defined as a. A curve on a plane that winds around a fixed center point at a continuously increasing or decreasing distance from the point. (Wikipedia)

Our kit was only $1 and it seemed to lack the stability to really get a pattern flowing. 

But that did not stop us from creating mini masterpieces.

O was quite content to watch miracles appear on the page and eager to try it out herself. We experimented with different pen colours and she decided to add to the drawings once the stencil was put aside.

The expansion opportunities are vast!

EXPAND ON GEOMETRY AND SPIRALS.
Finding Images. You could create your patterns and then look for images within. Much like looking at 'images in the clouds', your patterns can have pops of images come through. Read "Emma's Rug", by the amazing Allen Say http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/book/emmas-rug, to expand on how an artists eye can see things others do not.

Curve Stitching. Beautiful lessons using pushpins and thread. http://britton.disted.camosun.bc.ca/montessori/stitch/stitch1.html This link was brought to my attention by a fellow home schooling mom. Lessons in math, sewing, art..and a lovely result that is worthy of display.

Mendhi Math. We have used Henna before, but never in the notion of a math lesson. Mendhi offers ample opportunity to teach symmetry, geometry and a taste of culture. http://nurturestore.co.uk/henna-math-games-making-mehndi-patterns

Celtic Knots. Again combining geometry and culture, you can introduce the design of Celtic Knots.