Origami Symmetry
Students will explore the relationship between symmetry in nature and biology, using origami to model biological forms like flowers, leaves, and organisms.
LESSON PLAN
Materials:
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Square origami paper (various colors and sizes)
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Instructions with making origami butterflies or flowers
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Projector and slides
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Rulers (optional for precise folds)
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Pencils and markers (to label or decorate models)
Time Needed: 60 minutes
I Do: 15 minutes
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What is bilateral symmetry, radial symmetry, and asymmetry
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Show real-life examples and explain how they support biological functions like movement, reproduction, or survival
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How origami can mimic the symmetry in nature
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Examples of origami folds that mirror biological forms, like flowers (radial symmetry) or animals (bilateral symmetry)
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We Do: 35 minutes
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Students choose whether they want to do radial or bilateral symmetry. Based on their choice, they will either make an origami butterfly or flower following instructions that will be given
You Do: 10 minutes
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Present your origami!
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Introduce your flower/butterfly
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What symmetry did you use? How is your type of symmetry helpful in the real world?
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