Lesson Plan Title : Symmetry in Butterflies

Age Range: Kindergarten through grade 2 (Primary)

Overview and Purpose: Students examine the symmetry found in butterfly wings and then use paint to create their own sets of wings.

Objective: The student will be able to understand the concept of symmetry and create a butterfly that has symmetrical designs on its wings.

Resources:

Pictures of butterflies

Real butterflies-if available

Butterfly patterns

Tempera paint

Paint brushes

Paper

Activities:

Pass out the pictures of the butterflies and ask students to examine them. Discuss the different things they notice about them. Talk about the designs on their wings and ask them if everyone's butterfly has the same design on both wings. Explain that having the same thing on both sides is called symmetry. Have them name other things in nature that are symmetrical, e.g., faces, leaves, and bodies.

Have them create their own butterflies using the butterfly patterns and paint. After they trace their butterflies and cut them out, have them paint one side. They show them how to fold the butterfly in half so when they open it back up, both wings will have the same design.

Wrap Up:

This activity could be modified into a matching game. When the butterflies are dry, cut them in half and laminate them. The students could then use them to play memory or a go fish-type game.