Choose Learning Type ▼

Nature’s Patterns

Activity

Creating Symmetry with Found Objects

Explore symmetry by collecting natural objects from the school grounds, such as leaves, twigs, rocks, or seeds. Using these materials, create a piece of artwork on the ground that shows bilateral symmetry, where both sides of the design are mirror images. As you arrange your materials, notice the shapes and patterns you see in nature. Why do you think symmetry is important?

Science Seed

Symmetry in nature is important for survival. Plants often have bilaterally symmetrical leaves and flowers to help them capture sunlight more efficiently, which is crucial for making food through photosynthesis. Animals also rely on symmetry; for example, the even shape of a bird’s wings helps it fly smoothly, while a symmetrical body can help with balance and movement. Even in camouflage, symmetry can help animals blend into their environments, like a moth’s wings matching the pattern of tree bark to avoid predators. Symmetry plays a big role in how living things grow, move, and stay safe in their habitats.

move to the next activity

earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Geraldine Palmer Elementary

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

This project was made possible by HEB.