Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting

Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting is a free, NQF-aligned Art & Craft activity for ages 5 to 9. It includes a learning intention, a materials list, step-by-step instructions and framework links.

Learning intention

This experience supports children to investigate symmetry and pattern, and to make meaning through visual media.

You'll need

• Paper
• Assorted paints
• Paint brushes
• Smocks
• A water pot for rinsing brushes

How to do it

1. Fold a sheet of paper in half and reopen it flat.
2. Children paint a design on one half only - bold blobs of colour work best.
3. While the paint is wet, fold the paper closed and press gently across the surface.
4. Open it to reveal a symmetrical mirror-image. Talk about what 'symmetry' means and where we see it in nature.

Adapting for under-5s (EYLF v2.0)

When run with under-5s, this experience also supports children to begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work.

Curriculum links

MTOP

• 4.2 Children and young people develop a range of learning and thinking skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
• 5.3 Children and young people collaborate with others, express ideas and make meaning using a range of digital technologies and media and communication technologies

EYLF

• 5.4 Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work
  Adapting for younger children: When run with under-5s, this experience also supports children to begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work.
• 4.2 Children develop a range of learning and thinking skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
  Adapting for younger children: When run with under-5s, this experience also supports children to begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work.

NQS

• 1.2.2 Responsive teaching and scaffolding - Educators respond to children’s ideas and play and extend children’s learning through open-ended questions, interactions and feedback.

Frequently asked questions

What NQF outcomes does Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting support?

Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting is mapped to MTOP 4.2, MTOP 5.3, EYLF 5.4, EYLF 4.2, NQS 1.2.2. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.

What age group is Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting for?

This activity suits ages 5–9.

What do I need for Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting?

You will need Paper, Assorted paints, Paint brushes, Smocks and A water pot for rinsing brushes.

How long does Fold-Out Butterfly (Symmetry) Painting take?

Allow about 20 min.