Mandala
Standard 1 Creating, Performing, and Participating in The Arts
Standard 2 Knowing and Using Arts Materials and Resources
Standard 3 Responding To and Analyzing Works of Art
Standard 4 Understanding The Cultural Dimensions and Contributions of The Arts
Aim: Students will learn about Mandalas, and create their own using paper, pencils, markers and acetate.
Materials: Paper, Pencils, Markers, Acetate
Motivation: Mandalas will be viewed and discussed, and a brief background on their cultural significance will be read. This lesson will take a few class sessions to complete. Samples of each step of the project will be hanging for students to see what is expected of them for each class period. Finished samples will be hung on the board to serve as a motivation and inspire the students. Radial symmetry, balance, rhythm, and repetition will be discussed.
Multi-sensory Procedures: All Steps are modeled for students.
1) Model folding pre-cut paper wedge in half.
2) Designs are drawn on the left side of the paper wedge then transferred to the right side as to ensure perfect symmetry. Stress the importance of careful tracing. Designs should not be extremely complex since tracing the design 4 times will be necessary. Sample Mandalas are on hand for inspiration.
3) Once the design is clearly drawn on the wedge it is then carefully traced over in black marker onto the acetate sheet. The wedge needs to be taped to the acetate, traced, and then rotated. Students may need some assistance taping the wedge down into the exact spot to ensure perfect symmetry. After tracing the wedge 4 times, color may be added.
Follow Up:
During the lesson circulate and help any student who needs it. Creating the design on the wedge should be completed on day 1. The next class period students will trace their wedge 4 times creating the Mandala with radial symmetry. The following class students will add color following the rules of balance and symmetry.
