Polygonal Shaped Snowflakes | Cricutforschools

ISTE Standards

1.1 Empowered Learner
1.1a Learning Goals, 1.1d Technology Fundamentals
1.2 Digital Citizen
1.2.c Safeguard Well-being
1.3 Knowledge Construction
1.3.b Evaluate Information
1.4 Innovative Design
1.4.a Design Process, 1.4.b Design Constraints, 1.4.c Prototypes, 1.4.d Open-Ended Problems

State / Local / Other Standards

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.6: Use technology to produce and publish writing (designs) as well as to interact and collaborate with others.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.G.A.1: Understand that shapes in different categories may share attributes and that the shared attributes can define a larger category (e.g., polygons).

Learning Objective(s)

Students will develop and practice their mouse skills by creating polygonal "scissor cuts" on a virtual paper rectangle.
Students will demonstrate creativity and self-expression by designing unique digital snowflakes that reflect themselves.
Students will learn how to save their creations as .png files and upload them to Cricut Design Space to create physical snowflake designs.

Materials Required

Computers with internet access
Access to https://dangries.com/rectangleworld/PaperSnowflake/
Cricut Design Space software
Projector and screen for demonstration
Mouse / trackpad (chromebook) for each student
Printer (optional, for printing designs)

Instructions

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

Hook: Show a short video or slideshow of intricate paper snowflakes to spark interest.
Discussion: Ask students about their experiences with creating paper snowflakes. Highlight the idea of symmetry.
Objective Overview: Explain that they will be creating digital snowflakes using mouse skills and designing them to reflect their own creativity.

2. Direct Instruction (15 minutes)

Demonstration: Use a projector to show how to navigate to Rectangle World Pa11er Snowflake.
Modeling: Demonstrate how to create polygonal cuts on a virtual rectangle and emphasize symmetry.
File Saving: Show students how to save their creations as .png files.
Cricut Design Space Upload: Briefly explain how these files can be uploaded to Cricut Design Space. ( Teacher will do this part once students share their .png files)

3. Guided Practice (20 minutes)

Partner Work: Students work in pairs to practice creating polygonal cuts. Teachers circulate to provide individual support and feedback. Focus: Encourage students to experiment with abstract or symbolic designs, reminding them about maintaining the integrity of the snowflake for cutting.

4. Independent Practice (30 minutes)

Design Creation: Students create their own digital snowflakes, focusing on creativity and personal expression.
File Management: Students save their designs and practice uploading to Cricut Design Space with guidance.
Teacher Support: Provide help as needed, ensuring each student understands the process.

5. Conclusion (10 minutes)

Reflection: Have students share their designs with the class and explain their creative choices. ( share digital files, not cut files)
Discussion: Discuss what they learned about symmetry, creativity, and digital design tools
Feedback: Collect feedback on what students enjoyed and found challenging

Assessment

Observation: Monitor mouse skills and ability to create symmetrical designs during guided and independent practice.
Design Review: Evaluate saved snowflake designs for creativity, symmetry, and adherence to design constraints.
Reflection: Assess student reflections on their learning experience and creative process.

Download Rubric Here

Polygon Shaped Snowflakes

Description of Cricut Lesson & Activity