Planes of Discovery: Geometry & Physics Through Dance & Origami

In this cross-curricular, mixed arts residency culminating in a celebratory performance, students will engage in the physics of flight with origami artist James Peake and dancer Tom Evert. Students will practice the elements of dance, engaging their full selves to embody geometric concepts and principles of flight. Next, students will turn gross motor concepts into fine motor as they apply those same concepts to create a dart-nosed paper airplane. In addition to exploring the forces involved in flying an airplane, they will practice using precision, creating sharp, exact folds using tools, physical coordination, and use relevant terminology for origami folding and dance, geometric concepts of axes and symmetry, and physical science concepts of flight. This residency provides space for student-led discovery, physical and conceptual ingenuity, inquiry-based engagement, and cooperative learning.

• Participants will gain increased precision and attention to detail as they create a paper airplane.

• Participants will apply understanding of symmetry, forces of flight, and axes as they create and propel a paper airplane.

• Participants will model and perform movement solutions to demonstrate knowledge of the geometric and scientific concepts for their grade level.

• Participants will demonstrate spatial awareness and bodily control as defined in the elements of dance.

• Participants will demonstrate their understanding of concepts in dance, origami, science, math, and social-emotional learning through a summative performance at the conclusion of the residency.

Program Artist(s):

James Peake

Dance Evert