Thursday, August 12, 2010

Making Things Balance

Subject: Math

Lead students in a discussion about “balance”. Make a list or mind-map on large paper or chalk board. If possible, bring students to Calder exhibit and have them point out elements of balance. At school, on the playground, students will work in pairs, and then groups of 3-4. The groups will stand toe to toe, holding hands and leaning back to support each others’ weight. Have the groups intersect and balance without falling.

Art Experiment: Students will draw and cut out items that can be balanced. Have them label their items. Take students to playground with string, dowels, and their items. Have students direct where to place their items and the dowels to create balance from the overhead bars.

Extension: Students will construct their own simple mobiles using small dowels, string or yarn, drawn or cut out pictures.

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