Symmetry of Butterfly Wings

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In this activity, learners investigate balance and symmetry by designing a symmetrical butterfly, using a paper cutout. Then they use pennies symmetrically placed to balance the butterfly on the tip of their fingers, or on the tip of their nose! Learners can also investigate what other common objects are symmetrical.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per student
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 6
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • posterboard
  • butterfly pattern
  • markers
  • scissors
  • tape
  • pennies

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Patterns
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry

Informal Categories

  • Animals
  • Arts and Crafts

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Science Museum of Minnesota, 1995

Funding Sources:

  • Unisys
  • Science Learning Network
  • National Science Foundation