Art Integration into Grade 6 Math Unit Kevan Bryant, Tara Nieuwenburg, Ashley Peters

Grade 6
Revised By: Deanna Plested
ART INTEGRATION INTO MATH UNIT PLAN
Unit Topic: Measurement (Perimeter, Area, Volume)
Rationale:
At this age students should be experiencing hands-on activities while developing specific
mathematical skills. Connecting the visual perceptions of 2D shapes to 3D objects is an important
concept for Grade Six students to develop. The purpose of integrating art into measurement is so
that students can look at the formulas theyre using with a different perspective. These art
activities provide motivation and engagement for students to take an interest in learning math, and
provide different ways of looking at things (learning styles).
The series of lessons will flow from basic skill development of each mathematical formula
progressing from perimeter, to area, to volume. The unit will end in a culminating activity that
practices all three concepts by using origami as a kinaesthetic tool.
Lesson 1 Summary:
The idea behind this lesson is to create a non-overlapping collage of polygonal shapes using
coloured paper. The students will cut out different shapes (circles, squares, rectangles, triangles,
etc.) and glue them onto a larger piece of paper. They will measure the perimeter of each shape,
and write it in the middle of it. They can use their creativity to develop a visually pleasing
arrangement.
Lesson 2 Summary:
The goal of this lesson is to apply area to a real world application. Students will go
throughout the school, measuring the area of framed artworks (if the school does not have any,
students can measure any frame, poster, or bulletin board).
Lesson 3 Summary:
This lesson is intended to get students to build a 3D rectangular prism from a 2D image.
They will use clay to build their shape, and then measure the volume of it.
Lesson 4 Summary:
This is a culminating activity in perimeter, area, and volume. Students will use the technique
of paper folding (Origami) to further practice their mathematical formulas of perimeter, area, and
volume. They will record their mathematical findings on a worksheet.

Integrating Art into Math Lesson

Art Integration into Grade 6 Math Unit Kevan Bryant, Tara Nieuwenburg, Ashley Peters
Grade 6
Revised By: Deanna Plested
Grade: 6

Subject: Math

Topic: Measurement

Length of Lesson: 60 Minutes Date: Feb 10

Related General Learning Outcomes from Program of Studies:

Math: Use direct and indirect measurement to solve problems.
Art: CRAFTSMANSHIP: Students will perfect images through economical use of material and
efficiency of effort.
Related Specific Learning Outcomes from Program of Studies:
Math: Develop and apply a formula for determining the:
- perimeter of polygons
- area of rectangles
- volume of right rectangular prisms
Art: Minimal actions and limited media result in stronger forms, as in Chinese painting, cartoons or
Inuit sculptures.
Lesson Objectives:
Students will...
1)
2)
3)
4)

Understand perimeter, area, and volume using 2D and 3D shapes

Construct an origami cube while learning mathematical formulas
Record their observations on a worksheet
Appreciate origami as an art form

Resources Consulted:
The Art of Origami by Gay Merrill Gross
Materials:
-

300 squares of origami paper (red, white, pink)

Worksheet
Rulers
Whiteboard

Procedure:
Introduction (15 Minutes):
-

Can anyone tell me what art technique we used to create this cube or rectangular
prism? Hold up the origami cube.
Today we are going to explore perimeter, area, and volume as we create our own cubes
that you can give to someone as a Valentines Day gift if you want or you can keep it for
yourself.
Demonstration of paper folding and filling in the worksheet throughout the steps from
The Art of Origami to create a cube.

Art Integration into Grade 6 Math Unit Kevan Bryant, Tara Nieuwenburg, Ashley Peters
Grade 6
Revised By: Deanna Plested
-

We are going to number you off 1 through 3. If you are with number 1, go with Mrs.
Peters, number 2s go with Miss N, and number 3s go with Miss B to your station. You
will need to bring your ruler with you.

Body (40 Minutes):

-

The students will work in their small groups creating their own cube and measuring
perimeter, area, and volume of the paper and shape. The teachers will help students
fold and assemble their cubes.
Students who have previous experience folding origami may like to try folding smaller
squares (which will be more difficult). Encourage those who may have difficulty to use
the larger squares of paper.

Closure (5 Minutes):
-

Students go back to their desks.

Review the worksheet to ensure all students understand perimeter, area, and volume,
and filled their worksheets in with the correct answers.
By doing this origami activity, were you able to gain a deeper understanding of how
the formulas in math can be used on an actual shape?

Sponge Activity: All students should be finishing at a similar time, but they can create
another cube if they are finished early.
Formative Assessment Methods:
o
o

Students ability to follow instructions and complete the origami cube

Completion of worksheet 100% correct measuring the perimeter, area, and
volume of the paper and cube

Measuring and Origami

Art Integration into Grade 6 Math Unit Kevan Bryant, Tara Nieuwenburg, Ashley Peters
Grade 6
Revised By: Deanna Plested

Directions

Measure the
P=
perimeter of the
square piece of
origami paper
Measure the area A=
of the square
piece of origami
paper
Measure the
P=
perimeter of the
rectangular piece
of origami paper
after your first
fold
Measure the area A=
of the rectangular
piece of origami
paper after your
first fold
Measure the
V=
volume of your
rectangular prism

Formula

Measurement