Art and STEM

Curriculum Area and Level

• California Education Standards
• 5th Grade Visual Arts

Objective

Students will understand the integration of STEM principles in visual arts by creating geometric pattern artwork inspired by the Fibonacci sequence.

Materials Needed

• White drawing paper (9" x 12")
• Pencils
• Rulers
• Erasers
• Colour pencils, markers, or crayons
• Printouts of the Fibonacci sequence

Lesson Overview

Introduction (5 minutes)

1. Greeting and Objective: Welcome the students and introduce today's objective. Explain how STEM can be integrated into visual arts, specifically through patterns and mathematics.
2. Fibonacci Sequence: Briefly explain the Fibonacci sequence, showing how it appears in nature (e.g., shells, flowers) and how it can be used in art.

Demonstration (5 minutes)

1. Drawing the Sequence: Using the whiteboard, draw a simple Fibonacci spiral by creating a series of squares with lengths of 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, and so on.
2. Connecting Art and Math: Explain how these simple mathematical principles can create visually appealing artwork.

Activity (15 minutes)

1. Step-by-Step Instructions:
   1. Draw Squares: Distribute paper and pencils. Guide the students to draw squares based on the Fibonacci sequence on their paper.
   2. Create Spirals: Show how to connect the opposite corners of the squares to create a spiral pattern.
   3. Colour and Design: Allow students to add their creative touch by using colours and designs within the squares and around the spiral.
2. Individual Assistance: Move around the classroom to assist students with their drawings and encourage creativity.

Conclusion and Sharing (5 minutes)

1. Gallery Walk: Arrange the students' artworks around the room. Let students walk around and appreciate each other's work.
2. Discussion: Briefly discuss what they enjoyed and learned about combining art and math.
3. Closing: Thank the students for their participation and creativity.

Assessment

• Formative: Observe students throughout the lesson, particularly noting their ability to follow the Fibonacci sequence and their creative application of the sequence in their art.

Notes

• Ensure to provide positive reinforcement to encourage creativity and participation.
• Adjust the difficulty of the activity depending on the students' pace and comprehension.

This lesson plan aims to expand the students' understanding of how math and science intertwine with visual arts, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity for learning across subjects.