Make a mandala

Teacher notes

This lesson for KS1/2 invites learners to create a mandala with natural materials outside (to be left in nature), or inside using art materials or LEGO. It might be easier to organise as a 2-part lesson if you read and share the article on Magical mandalas in class and then follow up with the construction/art activity in a different session, as suits you. You'll need materials for either of the suggestions in Activity 3 OR prepare for a walk in nature. Children could take sketchbooks or record mandalas by taking a photo. **National Curriculum objectives:** Art KS2 (and KS1, adapted) - to produce creative work, exploring ideas and recording experiences - to become proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques - to evaluate and analyse creative works using the language of art, craft and design - to create sketch books to record their observations and use them to review and revisit ideas - to improve their mastery of art and design techniques, including drawing, painting and sculpture with a range of materials. KS1 and 2 maths: - identify 2-D shapes If you include the challenge activity: - identify and describe properties of 2-D shapes, including number of sides and line symmetry in a vertical line - draw symmetrical patterns using a variety of media to become familiar with different orientations of lines of symmetry; and recognise line symmetry in a variety of diagrams, including where the line of symmetry does not dissect the original shape. KS2 English (reading comprehension) - read texts structured in different ways and for a range of purposes. KS1 Design Technology - select from and use a wide range of materials and components, including construction materials, textiles and ingredients, according to their characteristics - evaluate their ideas and products against design criteria. KS2 Design Technology - select from and use a wider range of materials and components, including construction materials, textiles and ingredients, according to their functional properties and aesthetic qualities - evaluate their ideas and products and consider the views of others to improve their work.