Cut letters directions

Beginning activity as students enter room

Cut A,B,H.R,G you have 10 minutes

* Trays on table with scissors, 2x3 inch paper blocks, cup for trash

* “You has a lesson in which you used symmetry. Show names. What is symmetrical on the project? The name-it’s the same on both side, top and bottom. So the definition of symmetry is the same on both sides? Does anyone know what it’s called when it isn’t the same on both sides? Asymmetrical- a=away for symmetry, not the same.”

* “Look at the letters I asked you to cut. Which letters are symmetrical? A, B. How are they symmetrical? A is symmetrical side to side. B is symmetrical top to bottom. Does this suggest an easier way to cut them? A can be folded vertically, side to side. Show how 1/2 A is drawn on folded block. B can be folded horizontally, top to bottom. Rules: Be sure the fold is in the center of the letter or it will fall apart and use entire block space.”

* “How can you cut the inside of the B or any inside space? Cut through and glue back together.

* What are some other letters that are symmetrical? Vertical fold – AHIMOTUVWXY.

* What are some other letters that are symmetrical? Horizontal fold – BCDEHIKOX

* What letters are left? FGJLNPQUSZ. These are NOT symmetrical. They are asymmetrical. They cannot be folded and cut. You have to draw them on the paper and cut them out. However, it does help to fold some of the asymmetrical letters to find the center or to find the half way point.

* For example: How could the F be folded to make the cut easier? Cut an E, unfold and cut the bottom leg off. Fold horizontally for a G, unfold, cut off top leg. Fold P to find the center, unfold, cut. Fold R same as P with leg.

* Continue demonstrating to class letter cuts as they cut with you at their tables.

* Allow time for students. To practice cutting letters.

* At end of class tell class they are learning to cut letters in preparation of next lesson, posters.