line pattern rubbings

First-graders get cutting and patterning practice in this activity, which also has a problem-solving twist. Whether or not students create a pattern, the results are interesting and can create quite a colorful display.

The first step is for students to cut some strips from a piece of black construction paper, about 3x6. They glue the strips onto a white 6x6 piece of construction paper to create a design. Some students like to create a "picture" while others stick to designs or patterns. When the glue has been given a short time to dry, students do rubbings of their design on a 6x18 strip of white drawing paper. When I demonstrate how to do the rubbings, I show them that rotating the collage design for each new rubbing will result in an interesting pattern. Students use their choice of one, two, or three colors. The problem solving piece comes when students need to do a second 6x18 rubbing that exactly matches the first one. For some students, this is not as easy as it would seem. When the rubbings are complete, all three pieces are taped together to make a banner.

During the discussion, we look at the patterns created by the series of rubbings. Students are asked to describe their own patterns, or to name the patterns created by other students. The discussion also includes reference to colors used, especially the results of using heavier or lighter pressure with the crayons.