The Mathematics of Wallpaper

CONTENTS OF CURRICULUM UNIT 10.04.04

  1. Unit Guide
  1. There are 7 symmetry types of Frieze Patterns that can exist on a strip 5
  2. Classroom Activities
  3. Exploring Geometry and Symmetry
  4. An Introduction to Geometry and Symmetry and Their Moves
  5. Wallpaper and Frieze Patterns
  6. Teacher Resources:
  7. Endnotes:
  8. Appendix - Implementing National Standards

The Art of Symmetry

Stephanie A. Colombo

Published September 2010

Tools for this Unit:

Guide Entry to 10.04.04

The Art of Symmetry is an exploration into the basics of Geometry, how shapes and images move on a grid, and how this connects to symmetry of patterns. It is designed for any teacher looking to introduce symmetry to their math classes. This is a unit that can easily be adapted for any level of math or art classes. Lesson plans will include a variety of differentiated instructional strategies including games, symmetry in everyday life, art and lecture. All lesson plans are based on a direct instruction model which scaffolds each skill into small increments. Students will be introduced to symmetry through pictures of famous structures in the Bay Area. Afterwards we will make a day and explore symmetry in games such as building a house of cards to better understand the concept with a hands on activity. Lectures on the basic idea of symmetry and the 7 Frieze Patterns will further their understanding of symmetry and how simple shapes and figures move within a grid and later onto wallpaper. Their final project will be both identifying each of the 7 Frieze Patterns by looking at simple wallpapers and creating wallpaper designs of their own by choosing any 3 of the 7 Frieze Patterns.

(Developed for The Essentials of Algebra, grades 9-12; recommended for Basic Geometry and Special Education Math Class, grades 3-12 with the higher grades more for special education classes)

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