STREAM Activity: Leaf Symmetry Poster

Learn about symmetry by creating your own Leaf Poster!

Activity best for children ages 2 and up

Whether we explore our homes or go outside for an adventure, there is a concept that we don’t realize we see every day: symmetry. Symmetry is when both sides or all sides of something look the same. It’s like looking into a mirror! When we look into a mirror, we see a reflection of ourselves and each movement you do, your reflection copies the same. There are many things we can find that are symmetrical, like a heart or a butterfly’s shape and color pattern! When something is symmetrical, all parts of it look the same. Today, we are going to learn more about symmetry with nature by making a Leaf Poster!

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Materials:

Dry leaves

Pencil

Scissors

Glue

Coloring materials

Paper

Guiding Questions:

What are 3 things you can find at home that look symmetrical (the same on all sides)?

Try to practice symmetry with your hands. Can you make a heart and a circle with your hands?

Directions

Step 1

Go outside and look for some dry leaves. 3 to 5 leaves are a good number! Be sure the leaves aren’t too big so they can all fit onto your paper.

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Step 2

Cut the leaves in half from the bottom to the top. Have a grown-up help you with this part!

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Step 3

Glue down the leaves onto your paper.

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Step 4

Take your pencil and try to copy the shape of the leaf. Also fill in the little details if you can! This is the best way we can practice symmetry.

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Step 5

Color in your leaf and repeat the steps for all the leaves you’ve gathered! You can also decorate your paper as you go or once you’re finished.

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Grown Ups-Are you looking for more ways to extend your child’s learning? Check out these extension activities to build upon today’s STREAM activity!

Reading Connections

Looking for Symmetry by National Geographic

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Science Connections

Symmetry is part of nature. Our bodies are symmetrical, otherwise moving would be difficult. Animals and plants may also have symmetrical patterns and designs on them.

Real World Connections

Symmetry is important not only because it makes things nicer to look at but also helps with the way things work. A car that was NOT built symmetrically may possibly not move well.