Lesson Plan:
Geometry and Islam
Religious Beliefs Made Visual
Description
A short student activity that introduces why patterns are used in Islamic books, textiles and architecture and how to use a compass and a ruler to create two common patterns.
Objectives/Skills
Students will
- Understand the significance of geometric patterns in the Muslim world
- Replicate common patterns that adorn architecture, texts and textiles
- Practice using a compass and straight edge
Procedure
- Read and summarize "Islamic Belief Made Visual" essay (link on the left) for students.
- Give each student a piece of paper or poster board, compass, straight edge and copies of the handouts Construction of an Islamic Pattern parts one and two.
- Through demonstration and/or one-on-one work, help students replicate common geometric designs seen throughout the Muslim world.
Extension
For elementary school students: color the patterns to bring out geometric shapes. You may want to paper a bulletin board or wall with student artwork.
Copyright 2005. Author: Jane Norman.