Halloween masks become a math activity when students create Symmetric Faces. Each student needs a full sheet of one color construction paper and a half sheet of a contrasting color. Students fold the full sheet of paper and insert the half sheet inside. They then free-draw the outline of one side of the face including hair, ear, chin, etc. After cutting, students open the full sheet and position the half sheet on one side. They then draw the eyebrows, eyes, nose, and mouth on the half sheet. Students need to carefully cut out these features and position them on the opposite side to create a symmetric face.
This is a fun holiday project and students learn a lot about symmetry as they correctly position the cut pieces. It's also fun to see the wealth of ideas students generate from their 1.5 sheets of construction paper. By varying the paper colors, this activity is appropriate for fall, Halloween, Mardi Gras, Valentine's Day, etc.
Be sure to check out the Mathwire Directions for Creating Symmetric Faces.
Also visit the Mathwire Symmetric Faces Gallery for some inspiration. View symmetric faces created by teachers in workshops.
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