Educators' Science and Mathematics Institute Series
Winter Ecology Lesson Plan

Descriptive Title: Snowflakes ~ Symmetry in Motion

Submitted By: Cathy Amicucci

Subject and Grade Level: Math/Geometry 4th grade
                    Symmetry
Overview/Purpose:
Use snowflakes to identify and describe symmetry.
Compare and classify different snowflake shapes/patterns
Relate temperature to the shape of snowflakes (further application).

Objectives (Learner Outcomes):
Identify and describe line and rotational symmetry.
Describe attributes of familiar shapes.
Compare, sort, and classify shapes.

Activities and Procedures:
Read Snowflake Bentley
 Outside:
Use black construction paper to examine snowflakes.
Use hand lens for closer view.
Use hairspray and piece of glass to catch and permanently record snowflake.
  Inside:
View on videoscope.
Sketch designs found.
Share sketches
Record observations - 6 sided!! Symmetrical!
Using mirras find lines of symmetry.
Predict what will happen if design is rotated 90°, 180°; flipped.
Test theories compare with predictions.
Do “snow crystal” experiment
Supplies:  glycerin, water, dish detergent, baking dish, tablespoon, teaspoon, and wire.
Bend wire to make a 4” (10cm) loop with a handle.  Combine 5 tsp. Glycerin, 1Tbl. Dish detergent, and 3 Tbl. Water in baking dish.  Stir.
Put loop through the solution so it holds a film.  Place loop in the freezer and in a few hours you will see a giant snowflake.  Use magnifying glass to view fine detail.
Observe crystal with hand lens - compare to snowflakes.  How are they alike/different?
“Do you think they will be symmetrical?  Why/Why not?”
Sketch crystal
Check for symmetry.

Closure:
Symmetry in nature - Where else can we find symmetrical shapes in nature?
Make a list of predictions - as assessment find symmetry in nature.
Bring in examples found.

Assessment Strategies:
Journal - sketch symmetrical snowflake.
Cut out paper snowflakes - check for 1) symmetry 2) 6 sides.
Look for symmetrical shapes (nature) on the way home/at home…share findings - bring in examples found

Materials:
Weather Basics
How to Preserve a Snowflake by Benko
Snowflake Bentley   Martin

Standards Addressed:
  Math:      Strand II Geometry and measurement
          II.1  Shape and shape relationships
          II.2  Position
          II.3  Measurement  


Snow Crystal Experiment

Supplies
Glycerine
water
Dish detergent
baking dish
Tablespoon
teaspoon
Wire

Bend wire to make a 4 in. (10 cm) loop with a handle.  Combine 5 tsp. Glycerine, 1 Tbsp. Dish detergent, and 3 Tbsp. Water in baking dish. Stir.

2.  Put loop through the solution so it holds a film.  Place loop in the freezer and in a few
     hours you will see a giant snowflake.  Use magnifying glass to view fine detail.