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Goals: 

The following list of course goals will be addressed in Paper Planet. Each goal directly relates to a performance objective.

1. interact with traditional materials 2. draw basic geometric shapes 3. experiment with tessellation patterns 4. produce finished drawing

Performance Objectives

Topic: "Designing Tessellations with Traditional Tools"

Before you start: Planet Earth: The Design of Tessellations offers additional resources and information.

Directions for Paper Planet:

The following exercises are designed specifically for Adobe Illustrator 8 as the computer software package of choice. Adjustments may be made to accommodate other, but similar, graphics software.

What's in it for me? 

Students may repeat exercises as often as necessary to become familiar with the different types of tessellations. Sketchbooks and student logs may be useful for the final drawing.

Activities:

Students should be familiar with the terminology, art materials, and types of tessellations. Read or review available materials and complete the following tasks.

• Compose
  You may either draw your own grid or use graph paper if available. Make each figure about 1" square.

Circle: Using a compass, draw a circle.

Square: Using a straight edge, draw a square the same size as the circle.

Polygon: Draw a polygon the same size as the circle and square.

Triangle: Draw a triangle the same size as the other shapes.

Equilateral triangle: Using a straight edge (ruler) and pencil draw a rectangle that covers 4 primary squares thus forming a square. 1) outline half of the square (two sides)  2) draw another line from corner to corner.  Your shape should look like this one.

Bonus! Select a shape from the shapes you drew and connect several identical shapes to form a tessellation pattern. Be prepared to explain why you chose the shape, and how you completed this task.

Associated Assignments:
1. The student will maintain a log/sketchbook.
2. The student will view interactive video for information and fostering creativity
3. The student will play the simulation game for practice manipulating tiles.
4. The student will participate with peers for review of accomplishments.
5. The student will complete a drawing project

What you need:

1. Internet
2. Software - Adobe Illustrator 8.0
3. Video - Life of M.C. Escher
4. Books - see list of resources
5. Student log/sketchbook

Resources:  See list.

Post-test:  These content goals will be combined with others.

Task Review:

Goals: Paper Planet 1. interact with traditional materials 2. draw basic geometric shapes                 circle                 square                 polygon                 triangle                 equilateral triangle 3. experiment with tessellation patterns 4. produce finished drawing with traditional drawing materials 5. describe/demonstrate team participation with class Subgoals Access additional resources Associated Assignments Maintain log/sketchbook Work with peer group for review.

 Developed April 2000

2000-2006
Act1Graphics
Last update: 09.18.2005