Tessellations (1512)

A tessellation is a pattern of geometric patterns that fill a plan with no overlaps or gaps. One of the most famous contributors was Dutch artist, M. C. Escher. Tessellations are a great way to bring in a variety of subjects areas into a single lesson plan. Students are able to work with different geometric shapes they may have learned about, while also experiencing patterns first hand.



Tessellations can also help students make connections to real world examples. This could include tiling on the ground or a building, even the design in a quilt. It is important that students see examples of real life tessellations.



Giving students the opportunity to create their own tessellation is a great way for students to express themselves. This is a great time for art to be brought into the math classroom. It is not very often that this can be done so effectively.