Materials
scissors (adult only)
construction paper
red, yellow, and blue paint
brushes
newspapers
Instructions
l Cut construction paper into various 9" x 12" shapes.
l Set out newspaper over the area where the children will be working.
What to Do
1. Engage the children in a discussion about symmetry. Show the children how to
fold a paper circle in half, and how it remains symmetrical. Then fold a triangle
in half in a way that it asymmetrical.
2. Give the children paper shapes to fold in half, and then reopen and lay flat.
3. Provide paint and brushes. Invite the children to put dabs of paint on one side
of the folds on their papers. Remind the children not to brush the paint
around, but merely to dab them.
4. After they have put a few dabs of different colors of paint on their papers,
direct the children to refold the paper, pressing hard several times on the
paper. Help the children carefully reopen the paper so they can see the
symmetrical dabs of paint on both sides of the paper.
Teacher - to - Teacher Tip
l Consider taking the children on a walk through the school or the
neighborhood to look for examples of symmetrical objects. Take notes or
photographs of the symmetrical objects for the children to discuss later in the
classroom.
Assessment
To assess the children's learning, consider the following:
l Does the child understand symmetry and asymmetry when you show him the
difference with paper shapes?
l Can the child fold, paint, and press the paper to create symmetrical images?
