It is important for children to learn about symbols and patterns to help them think and also make connections between things they know and symbols. Recognising symbols and patterns is also important for children learning how to write because letters are symbols that represent sounds.
Here are some suggestions for helping children to recognise and understand symbols and patterns. Some of these are things that Kate has done in her lessons so these would be easy to transfer to the children.
Henna Tattoos - The patterns in the tattoo have relationships with objects that are sacred or used in Hindu celebrations eg: flower garlands.
Mandalas - the patterns are symmetrical and can teach us about shapes and reflections.
Dance Steps - the way dance steps are put together (the sequence) can teach children about patterns
Greek Alphabet and English Alphabet - each letter stands for a sound
Environmental Print - the computer keyboard, signs on the tram or train, the traffic lights, words on a menu in a restaurant, logos on advertising on TV or in a magazine, icons eg: the disability logo on the parking space or the parents with prams logo; icons like for entry and exit at the gym. All these are symbols that have meaning. You can put signs with logos and icons around the classroom so that the children become familiar with the symbols and start to talk about what the symbols mean.
TASK: Go for a walk or for a drive in the car. Look out for some symbols. Take a photo of the symbols. print out the photos and make a collage and write down next to each photo what the symbol means/represents. Discuss your collage with your mum or coach.
Commentaires