Kindergarten class

torn-paper collage
STUDIO artist: Cheryl Taylor

Composing Shapes and Applying Math Concepts in Group Collage Work: This project was introduced by posing the question to the class, “How can we make circles in our collage work with paper by tearing shapes and not using scissors or outlining other shapes?” By looking around and identifying circles in the room and on our own bodies, we saw how circles always have a curved line that meets itself back in the place where it begins. We also recognized differences between perfect symmetrical circles and non-symmetrical circles. Next we discussed how we could create circles from a rectangular piece of paper by just tearing it. We experimented as a group tearing various shapes and putting them together without glue on a background. Then we composed circles by arranging the smallest torn shapes. We also discerned that any shape, geometric or otherwise, could be made by arranging smaller shapes to form its distinctive lines. Next I asked the children how we could use math and numbers to help us measure and compose our group project, which must include every child’s individual collage. We then discussed our ideas of how addition, subtraction, and multiplication, and even division could be applied. This was illustrated by fitting together the smaller pieces onto the larger poster boards.

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