Unplug Your Family II
The Symmetry Expedition
Monarch Butterflies have many lines of symmetry.
First the Background:
Symmetry is made for families. Symmetry has power to provide motivation and enthusiasm for going outside. Once your children discover it, symmetry can become a significant motivation for your children-and you to go outside.
What is symmetry?
The mathematical definition explains symmetry as the attribute of a shape or relation; it is the exact reflection of form on opposite sides of a dividing line. The parts on either side of that line match equally in size, shape, and design.
Your study of symmetry in nature as a family may be a gateway for you to connect you children with an early delight in mathematics.
The best way for me to understand a concept is to see a model or, example.
Nature is filled with symmetry. It is the ideal place to teach this mathematical phenomenon. There are other ways to explain it with words. Symmetry is the harmony in a relationship, ½ of the object mirrors the other half. A square or rectangular mirror can be used to reveal the symmetrical relationship of the halves. The harmony of symmetry produces a beauty the human mind always finds attractive.
· Radical
· Strip pattern
· Wallpaper
These two types can be discovered through the use of a rectangular or square mirror:
· Reflection
· Rotation
We humans are naturally attracted to symmetry. One explanation for this is that we evolved with minds that find pleasure and delight in order. Yet this idea falls severely short.
Consider these truths about symmetry:
1. There is order…all of nature demonstrates order. The randomness of evolution does not account for this.
2. The human brain…all human brains from the beginning of time are wired to notice and enjoy symmetry. One writer (Dave Roos, How Stuff Works) used the word “programmed.”
Question: Does the randomness of evolution provide enough evidence to explain the order of symmetry?
Symmetry shows the power of God through the existence of order. Nature symmetry is beautiful in:
· Economy
· Simplicity
· Elegance
Observe symmetry in nature and see the hand of God.
It is God who placed the order of symmetry in all the earth. Because He is all powerful, only He is able to organize and structure the earth wide and systematic beauty of symmetry. Job knew this.
“Dominion and awe belong to God; he establishes order in the heights of heaven.” Job 25:2
Symmetry never changes. The principles of symmetry remain throughout history. The delight of humans in symmetry continues from the beginning of time. Why? Symmetry works because God never changes. These are the words of the prophet Malachi and James, the half brother of Jesus:
“I the Lord do not change. So, you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.” Malachi 3:6
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17
Painted Lady butterflies reveal beautiful symmetrical patterns.
Second: Bless your family with a symmetry expedition (a journey to observe symmetry)
Materials:
· Journal
· 1 mirror for your family-a chance to share!
· Camera
· Sun paper
1. Start simply. Take a family hike to your back yard or around your neighborhood.
2. Once outside pull out your mirror, find a leaf.
3. Use the mirror and leaf to explain what symmetry is. (1/2 mirrors the other half)
4. Walk together and look for nature symmetry: insects, plants, pets, rocks…etc. Make a dated list in your family journal.
5. Take photos of the symmetry you like best-5 to 8 would be good.
6. Collect some natural objects: leaves, grass, rocks, twigs…(things which will not be harmed by collecting to bring inside.)
7. Stop your expedition while your group is excited…they will want more another time.
Inside- after your first symmetry expedition:
8. Print your photos and use the mirror to look at the symmetry. (Look at the link to sun paper for an example.)
9. Take out the sun paper and the nature objects you collected.
10. Make your own symmetry art with the objects.
Whether you are inside or outside…listen to your children as they talk about symmetry. Ask them questions that lead them further in the mystery, beauty and delight found in symmetry. Together you and your children can see the invisible qualities of God: His eternal power and divine nature.
You will discover that your first symmetry expedition will lead to others…even a lifetime of delight in symmetry
Dragonflies have two sets of symmetrical wings…such delicate beauty.
Even the trim of this dragonflies’ wings are symmetrical-in gold!
Why does this Sulpher butterfly have two black dots on it’s upper wing quadrants? Order like this is no accident…it does not organize by itself.
*None of the insects in these photos were netted and killed. All were found on the grill of my vehicle, they were victims of a trip to photograph fall beauty. Even in their demise, these insects are beautiful!