The Art of Tessellations

Primary 5

ART

Mdm Lee Li Peng

We Are Learning To…

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1. Understand what is a Tessellation and the types of tessellations.
2. Apply the PART-TRAP method to create a tessellation shape.
3. Design and draw a Translation tessellation artwork based on a chosen theme.

Elements of Art:�SHAPES

• A shape is created when a line is enclosed.
• Shapes can play important roles in the creation of drawings and paintings.
• Shapes can help to create complex drawings and paintings, affect composition, and contribute to the balance within a work.

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See�Think �Wonder

Art

Discussion

Thinking Routine

SEE

THINK

WONDER

What shapes, colours, and patterns do you notice in this artwork?

How do you think the artist managed to make all the birds fit together so perfectly without leaving any gaps?

What do you wonder about the artist’s ideas or message?

Image Source:

https://mcescher.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/e18.jpg

Who is �M.C Escher?

• Born in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, on June 17, 1898.

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• Developed an interest in drawing and design after leaving school and traveled around Europe and lived in several countries.

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• Inspired by decorative tiles with repeating patterns. Used similar patterns in his artwork, where shapes often transformed into new forms.

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• Famous for his impossible constructions, optical illusions, and mathematically inspired artworks.

Image source:

https://www.britannica.com/biography/M-C-Escher

https://mcescher.com/gallery/symmetry/#

https://mcescher.com/gallery/symmetry/#

https://mcescher.com/gallery/most-popular/#

https://mcescher.com/gallery/most-popular/#

What is a Tessellation?

A Tessellation (or Tiling) is when we cover a surface with a pattern of flat shapes so that there are no overlaps or gaps. 

Tessellations are all around us, like in floor tiles and gift wrappers. 

https://pixnio.com/free-images/2023/05/18/2023-05-18-10-28-34-1344x2016.jpg

https://www.environment-textures.com/photoThumbnail/2013-09/13462-131565/seamless-brick-high-resolution-wall-texture_550v550.jpg?v=20230814152519

https://cat-socrates.myshopify.com/cdn/shop/files/20230426_162728_1800x1800.jpg?v=1682502113

Type of Tessellation Style

(3) Rotational

Activity 1

Materials:

• 1 set of Tessellation puzzle
• 2 pcs of puzzle templates
• Scissors
• Tape
• Drawing paper & pencil
• Colouring materials

Understanding how a Translation tessellation shape is form by using the PART-TRAP method.

Activity 1

Let’s watch a video to …

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• Understand how a tessellation shape is form by using the PART-TRAP method.

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• Learn how to use this shape to make a Translation tessellation drawing.

Step 1 : �Arrange the puzzle pieces to spell the word PART. �Notice that the puzzle appears as a square.

Step 2 :

Separate the pieces and re-arrange them to spell the word TRAP. Now the puzzle becomes a shape which can be tessellated.

Activity 1

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It’s your turn to try! (3 min)

Step 3 : How to use this shape to make a Translation tessellation.

Activity 2

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Let’s Practice (10 min)

Lesson Task

Design and create a TRANSLATION style tessellation artwork.

Choose 1 theme below.

Use your imagination to design your tessellation art piece :

• Animals
• Nature � (plants, flowers, leaves)
• Strange Faces
• Monsters
• Aliens
• Cartoon

1. Write the letters P,A,R,T at the 4 corners of the puzzle template.
2. Draw 1 horizontal line (left to right) & 1 vertical line (top to bottom)�*Lines can be straight or wavy but should not be too complicated or diagonal or more than 1.

Lesson Task Steps:

3. Cut along the lines and separate into 4 pieces.�DO NOT cut the same line more than once or trim it.
4. Re-arrange the pieces to spell the word TRAP.
5. Tessellate your puzzle piece on a new drawing paper to create your artwork based on your chosen theme (eg: animal).

Lesson Task Steps:

Let’s Share

• 1 thing you enjoy the most about creating your tessellation artwork.

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• 1 challenge you faced when making your repeating pattern.

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• 1 thing you would like to change in your artwork.

Success Criteria

Primary 5

ART

• I can create a tessellation shape using the PART-TRAP method.

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• I can create a Translation style tessellation artwork with my chosen theme.

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