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DIY Kaleidoscope Adventure

Lesson Plan

DIY Kaleidoscope Adventure

Understand light reflection and symmetry

In this lesson, students will build their own kaleidoscope to explore the concepts of light reflection and symmetry. This creative project combines art and science, enhancing spatial awareness and creativity. By engaging in this hands-on activity, students will gain a deeper understanding of how light behaves and how symmetrical patterns are formed, fostering both scientific curiosity and artistic expression.

Audience

Upper Elementary Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Understand light reflection and symmetry

Materials

Cardboard tubes, Reflective sheets, Colored beads, Clear plastic sheets, Scissors, Tape, Worksheet: Kaleidoscope Construction, and Discussion: Light and Symmetry

Step 1

Introduction to Kaleidoscopes

5 mins

  • Briefly explain what a kaleidoscope is and how it works.
  • Discuss the concepts of light reflection and symmetry.
  • Show examples of kaleidoscopes and their patterns.

Step 2

Building the Kaleidoscope

25 mins

  • Distribute materials to each student.
  • Step 1: Cut the reflective sheet into three equal strips, each slightly shorter than the length of the cardboard tube.
  • Step 2: Tape the strips together to form a triangular prism, with the reflective side facing inward.
  • Step 3: Insert the prism into the cardboard tube, ensuring it fits snugly.
  • Step 4: Cut two circles from the clear plastic sheet to fit the ends of the tube.
  • Step 5: Place one plastic circle at one end of the tube and secure it with tape.
  • Step 6: Add a small handful of colored beads into the tube.
  • Step 7: Seal the other end with the second plastic circle, ensuring it is taped securely.
  • Remind students to handle scissors carefully and ensure all parts are securely taped to prevent beads from spilling.

Step 3

Exploring Patterns

10 mins

  • Have students look through their kaleidoscopes and observe the patterns.
  • Encourage them to rotate the kaleidoscope and notice changes in patterns.
  • Ask students to sketch their favorite pattern on the worksheet.

Step 4

Closure and Discussion

5 mins

  • Facilitate a discussion using the provided questions about light and symmetry.
  • Recap the key concepts learned during the activity.
  • Encourage students to think about other places they see symmetry and reflection in the world.
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Worksheet

Kaleidoscope Construction Worksheet

This worksheet guides students through the construction of their kaleidoscope and helps them reflect on the patterns they observe.

List the materials you used to build your kaleidoscope.








Describe the steps you followed to assemble your kaleidoscope.








Sketch your favorite pattern observed through the kaleidoscope.








Explain how light reflection creates the patterns you see.








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