Maths in nature

Do you notice math in the natural world? Do your kids? Learn about and explore the beauty of math in nature and then get outside to see it for yourself.

Symmetry is usually defined as a sense of "balanced proportions" or "the quality of having parts that match each other," especially in an attractive way. And, when you think about it, it is all around us. Whether we look at human beings, architecture, art, or biology, there’s nothing more fascinating than seeing how the world is full of perfect forms and harmony.

Children are more likely to remember concepts when they see a reason for using them. Here are some ideas for learning math with nature.

I was curious, so I analyzed the geometry of the peacock's tail-feather display. Turns out the shape is a symmetrical phyllotaxis, which is somewhat surprising. Most phyllotaxis patterns in nature (like on pinecones, pineapples and sunflowers) have spirals of adjacent Fibonacci numbers (usually 5, 8, 13 or 21), but the peacock's feathers have the same count of spirals in both directions!

The Math Behind Spirals: FInding Math in Nature with Kids :: PragmaticMom

Doodle Learning, creators of the Doodle Math app for kids, created fun printables to help your child explore math in nature.

One researcher takes this finding into account when developing retinal implants that restore vision

Dive into the world of fractals with this comprehensive article on fractal art, geometry, and patterns. See stunning examples and learn about the history and applications of these complex mathematical shapes. Explore the beauty and complexity of fractals. Don't miss this must-read resource on everything fractal!

For Math Week '09

Naranja

So many people have asked me: ” What is the meaning of the Andara Stars logo? What does it represent ?” While I knew some of you could see already where it was coming from, others were just curious of how I put together this attractive shape that feels kind of familiar, but not quite […]

No computer programs necessary.

Have you ever noticed all the different math patterns you can find in nature? With this simple, yet fun lesson kids can learn to recognize patterns in nature - like the butterfly! :: www.inallyoudo.net

15 Hands-On Nature Math Ideas to Make Learning Come to Life. I have 15 hands on nature math ideas for your younger kids. Also, you may love Hands-On Nature Study: Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity.

1. Spiral staircase, 2. Spiral, 3. Spiral Aloe, 4. Spiral, 5. Spiral, 6. Doyle Spiral+Inversion, 7. 070322 RD Library spiral stairs, 8. Spiral of Beauty, 9. Passy in a Spiral, 10. Spiral, 11. Morning spiral rose, 12. spiral, 13. Spiral, 14. Spiral Glass, 15. Serpent Spiral, 16. The Nautilus Spiral, 17. rainbow spiral, 18. Spiral Staircase, Palace of Versailles, 19. Spiral (up), 20. Rusty Spiral, 21. Red Spiral & blue, 22. Leaf spiral, 23. sky spiral, 24. flower spiral face, 25. Spiraling…

Take learning outside with this fun activity idea for teaching graphs.

Learn about patterns in nature to give you a whole new appreciation of creation's details and intelligence. Plus, a free scavenger hunt printable!