Second Grade Mandala Art Project Weaves Together Social Studies and Mindfulness

In art class, second graders are creating mandalas, which connect perfectly with their social studies units on Japan (2B) and India (2W). Mandalas are spiritual and ritual symbols used in many cultures and countries and are made up of intricate patterns. Each class observed mandalas from their respective country and “learned that in each culture, mandalas are tied to mindfulness. We discussed strategies students could use to be more mindful when creating their own mandalas,” explained teacher Rebekah Goldstein. To create their mandalas, students drew concentric circles to form the base, and then, working at the center and moving outward, they filled their mandalas with patterns and designs. Students listened to relaxing music while they worked quietly and mindfully on their mandalas. This project weaves together the social studies curriculum and art curriculum, which in second grade is focused on radial symmetry, organic and geometric shapes and patterns, and attention to detail.

 

Ms. Goldstein adds, “When asked, ‘How does being mindful change your experience making art?’ one student replied, ‘When the classroom is quiet and peaceful, I am really able to focus on my artwork!’” MORE PHOTOS