Leaf Symmetry Science and Art

This project will introduce the types of margins and venation that are found in leaves.
State of California Visual Art Standards:
1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 5.0 see text of standards on last page
Four types of leaves will be designed and cut out using black paper. The paper will be folded before cutting, so
the leaves will be bi-laterally symmetrical. Examples of student are below this document.

Vocabulary: please write definitions for these words:

Bilateral Symmetrical Venation Margin (botanical definition) -

Materials:
1. One sheet of white paper, 12 x 18, or 11 x 17. Fold the sheet in half the long way (like a hotdog). Then fold
it in half the opposite way. Fold it once more the opposite way, then open it up.

Your paper will have eight rectangles that are approximately 4-1/2 x 6.
2. One sheet of black paper, 9 x 12, or 8-1/2 x 11. Fold the paper in half lengthwise, then crosswise. You will
now have four rectangles, approximately 4 x 6.

3. Handouts on leaf shapes, including leaf margins and leaf venation.

4. Scissors and glue or glue stick.

Directions:
1. Cut up the rectangles of black paper.
2. Fold each one in half the long way, or diagonally.
3. Look at the different leaf shapes and types of venation and margins. (Your teacher will pronounce these
words for you and you repeat them.) Learn these words. Palmate sounds like palm and looks like a palm tree
frond or the palm of your hand. Pinnate comes from the word for pine tree, and has a pin or needle-like
shape.
4. Decide on four different types of leaves and venation for your designs. Draw the four designs lightly with
pencil on the folded black rectangles. Include the veins and make them as detailed as possible. If you are not
able to cut out the veins, you may draw them with a white pencil.
5. Cut out the leaves with your paper still folded, making one continuous cut so that the left-over paper
(negative space) will be intact. When the leaves (and excess paper around them) are opened up, they will be
symmetrical -- both sides will be similar.
6. When all your leaves are cut out, lay them down on the white paper. Try alternating leaves and backgrounds,
so that your design has a checkerboard appearance. Try placing the leaves at an angle. They may all be
standing straight up, or they may be upside down. Have someone look at your layout and make suggestions
before you glue on the leaves.
7. If it was too hard to save the cuttings from the venation, try drawing the veins in with a thin marker or black
pen.
8. On the back of your work, please label the four leaf shapes you created. Please write lightly in pencil:
the name of each leaf shape
the name of the venation pattern
the name of the margin pattern.
Be sure and write your name, too!

Lesson designed by: Hollis Litrowik,

California Department of Education (http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/vagrade8.asp)

Page Generated: 1/7/2015 9:50:57 AM

Applied to all grade levels

Visual and Performing Arts: Visual Arts Content Standards.

1.0 ARTISTIC PERCEPTION

Processing, Analyzing, and Responding to Sensory Information Through the Language and Skills Unique to the Visual Arts
Students perceive and respond to works of art, objects in nature, events, and the environment. They also use the vocabulary of the
visual arts to express their observations.

2.0 CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Creating, Performing, and Participating in the Visual Arts
Students apply artistic processes and skills, using a variety of media to communicate meaning and intent in original works of art.

3.0 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT

Understanding the Historical Contributions and Cultural Dimensions of the Visual Arts
Students analyze the role and development of the visual arts in past and present cultures throughout the world, noting human diversity
as it relates to the visual arts and artists.

4.0 AESTHETIC VALUING

Responding to, Analyzing, and Making Judgments About Works in the Visual Arts
Students analyze, assess, and derive meaning from works of art, including their own, according to the elements of art, the principles of
design, and aesthetic qualities.

5.0 CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS, APPLICATIONS

Connecting and Applying What Is Learned in the Visual Arts to Other Art Forms and Subject Areas and to Careers
Students apply what they learn in the visual arts across subject areas. They develop competencies and creative skills in problem
solving, communication, and management of time and resources that contribute to lifelong learning and career skills. They also learn
about careers in and related to the visual arts.
Questions: State Board of Education | 916-319-0827

Last Reviewed: Monday, November 24, 2014

http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/vagrade8.asp?print=yes [1/7/2015]