Shapes in Nature Project Based Learning PBL Math, Geometry, Science
Shapes in Nature Project-Based Learning Activity for Grades 2-5
Explore the Fascinating World of Shapes in Nature with Our Engaging PBL Activity!
This comprehensive project integrates ELA, writing, planning, art, shapes-based math, and growth mindset, encouraging learners to explore and understand the geometric patterns found in the natural world.
Objective:
The primary goal is to help learners become keen observers of nature and the environment, making connections between geometric shapes and the natural world. Learners will improve their observational skills, math and geometry knowledge, and critical thinking abilities.
Learning Outcomes:
Learners will:
- Develop observational skills and a deeper appreciation for nature.
- Gain knowledge in geometry, ELA, and critical thinking.
- Integrate art, math, and design into a cohesive project.
Motivating Question:
"Exploring Shapes in Nature: How Do Different Shapes and Patterns Help Plants and Animals Thrive?"
Project Activity Pages:
- What I Know About Shapes: Mind Mapping
- Hexagonal Puzzle Challenge
- Doodle Art Shapescapes: Recording Shapes
- Garden Shapescape: Coloring and Hunting for Shapes
- Sea Shapes: Coloring and Hunting for Shapes
- Shapes and Patterns: Nature Scavenger Hunt
- Shapes and Patterns: Categorizing Activity
- My Doodle Art Shapescape: Art Activity
- Shape Mapping: Geometry and Spatial Awareness
- Honeycomb Construction Challenge
- Packing Challenge: Squares, Triangles, Circles
- Feedback and Reflection
- Final Projects
- Extension Ideas
- Additional Resources
Learner Decision-Making:
Learners will have the autonomy to choose their art and design works as well as their final project. This encourages them to think creatively and critically while making connections between geometry and nature.
Learner Inquiry:
The project encourages learners to research the connection between geometry and the natural world. They will learn to see patterns in art, math, design, and nature, fostering a deeper understanding of how these patterns help plants and animals thrive.
Feedback and Revisions:
Learners will actively participate in the feedback and revision process, reflecting on their experiences to identify what went well, what was challenging, what was most interesting, and what else they still want to learn. This feedback loop encourages continuous improvement and self-directed learning.
Published Product:
Learners will choose how to present their findings. Options include producing a work of art or design of their choosing. Older learners can research more advanced subjects related to patterns in nature, such as biomimicry, migration patterns, fractals, spirals, the Fibonacci series, weather patterns, or camouflage.
How to Use:
The project includes 12 activities that can be printed and organized into a binder or stapled together. Scaffolding information, including vocabulary, facts, reading lists, and weblinks, is available at any stage. Colored pencils, markers, and crayons are encouraged to enhance the visual appeal of project materials. Resources such as the internet, textbooks, maps, and peer collaboration will help learners successfully complete their projects.
Extension Activities:
- Research examples of biomimicry
- Study migration patterns
- Explore geometric patterns such as fractals, spirals, and the Fibonacci series
- Analyze weather patterns or camouflage
Get your learners excited about geometry and nature with our Shapes in Nature Project – a fun, educational, and comprehensive learning experience!
Terms of Use
Please note: Purchase of this product is for Personal and Classroom Use ONLY
Not for Commercial Use. Purchase of this product entitles you the right to reproduce the pages in limited quantities for single classroom use only. Copying any part of the product and placing it on the internet in any form (including a personal or classroom website) is strictly forbidden and is a violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Copyright: Quest Schooling LLC.
After purchase you will receive a link to download the PDF file. All pages are included in the file and can be printed in black and white for immediate use.
Any or all of the pages in the PDF file can be printed and used for students across a wide range of ages/skills, or collaboratively with kids of different ages.
For example, younger kids may focus more on the design and drink recipes for the stand while older kids may also include the business plan and profit margin aspects of the project.
Depending on your student’s needs, there are several pages of scaffolding information, including vocabulary, facts, reading list, weblinks. Scaffolding can be done at any stage throughout the project as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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All projects are digital download pdf files. They can be printed in gray scale or black and white and are ready for your student to use.
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No, the projects are flexible and can be adapted to your student's grade and skill level. Each project includes a list of student activities. you can review them and decide which pages work for your student.
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In project based learning, each student completes both the project activities and a final project. I always offer a choice of final projects to provide differentiation and give students of different skills enough options.
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Most projects include a rubric to help you assess your students work and give your student an opportunity to assess their own work. However, each student's project will be unique to them and be a reflection of their knowledge and skill set. There is no one 'right answer' to a project. The success of a project is largely in the process of doing the project.