Lesson Overview:

Mandalas, symmetrically-designed polygons, are found throughout the natural and man-made world, and in the arts of many cultures. Students will explore the cultural background of mandalas, then learn to make their own mandalas that incorporate polygons, symmetry, and color scheme.

Length of Lesson:

Four 45-minute class periods

Instructional Objectives:

Students will:

• review elements and basic vocabulary of geometry.
• apply geometry skills to increase understanding of polygons.
• learn about the history and cultural background of mandalas.
• combine their knowledge of polygons and understanding of mandalas to design their own mandalas.
• correctly incorporate polygons, symmetry, and color scheme in the design of their mandalas.

Supplies:

• Rulers and compasses
• 8" x 11" drawing paper
• Pencils and colored pencils

Instructional Plan:

Warm Up

(Note: Prior to this lesson, you and your students should have a strong, working knowledge of basic geometry, including commonly-used vocabulary and how to use a compass.)

Distribute the geometry Vocabulary handout. Discuss the terms with students, and have them draw examples on the board of selected polygons described in the handout. Review and demonstrate the correct use of a ruler and compass to create circles and polygons. Have students explore the page, Fraction Shapes. This page may help your students to identify relational patterns in shapes. Another exercise, which can be completed offline, during class or for homework, is the Hidden Polygon Activity.

Directed Instruction

Mandala, which loosely translates to "circle" or "magic circle", symbolizes balance and unity. Mandalas are found throughout the natural and man-made world, from Tibet to parts of North America. They are used for spiritual guidance and artistic growth. To introduce the origins and significance of mandalas, have students visit the following sites: Exploring The Mandala and The Mandala Project. You may wish to have your class look at examples of mandalas drawn by students.

Students will now combine their knowledge of polygons and understanding of basic mandala structure to create their own mandala. Use the following directions:

1. Distribute large white paper.
2. Using a compass, each student will draw an 8" circle on the paper.
3. Divide the circle in half, and then in fourths with a light pencil line.
4. Each student should draw a design using their rule and compass in one of the four areas of the circle.
5. Once the design is completed in the first area, students should repeat the same design in the other three areas of the circle.
6. Briefly discuss symmetry with students, then have them color the design using not more than four colors.

Independent Activity

Each student should have one large piece of white paper, compass, and ruler. Students will design a mandala using at least four different polygons. Have students write the names of polygons they use at the bottom or on the back of their paper. Group students, or allow them to pair off, and share their design before adding color. Students should offer each other constructive suggestions on how to improve the design, symmetry, or potential color scheme. Once they have selected a color scheme that will enhance the symmetry of their design, have students begin adding color to their mandala.

Have students mount their completed mandala on poster board, and display them in the class. Engage students in discussion about what polygons they used in their design, and they created more intricate designs.

Assessment:

Students will assess themselves, and what they have learned about mandalas, by writing a short one-page reflection. Students should describe the significance of their mandala design in their reflection. In addition to the reflection, use the Assessment Rubric to evaluate students learning.

Sources:

Print:

• Fincher, Susanne. Creating Mandalas. California. Shabhala Publications, 1991.
• Foster, Walter. Mandala Sand Art. California. Walter Foster Publishing, 2004.
• Hund, Wolfgang. Seasonal Mandalas. Utah, Publisher’s Press, 2001.

Web:

• Exploring The Mandala
  http://www.askasia.org/for_educators/instructional_resources/ lesson_plans/mandala/mandala.htm
• Geometry Online
  http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/Geom/
• The Mandala Project
  http://www.mandalaproject.org/index.html

Authors:

• Kim Guzzetti, Teacher
  CSU Chico
  Chico, CA