Vocabulary Words: Op Art, Symmetry, balance, problem solving, color theory

Materials: cardboard design circle, brad, marker, ruler, pencil

This lesson fits well with my Op Art theme. I find the exact center of each students design circle (I stack them and pierce several with a long pin). We begin by drawing guidelines with pencils through the center - I usually have them divide their circle into 1/4, then each section in 1/2. I explain how important it is that every section be exactly the same. They draw designs inside each section then color with marker. When they are completely through coloring I give them a brad. The brad must go in so the flat part is on the underside of the circle. The students then place their design circles on a flat surface and give them a spin. They are always fascinated at how the colors mix. I tried to get a picture of the spinning effect but my camera wouldn't cooperate!