CHAPTER 7

CREATING A FLAG

INTRODUCTION

Flags come in all different shapes and sizes. They can represent many different things. They can be used as symbols, as signals or as decoration. What flags are you familiar with? What do you think they represent?

TASK

You have created a mosaic; now try to create your own flag. Create a flag that represents you. Your flag could tell a story about your family, hobbies or something that is special to you. Your flag must follow these rules.

• Most shapes should have straight lines.
• Some shapes should have a line of symmetry.
• You should include some congruent shapes.

Write about your flag. Describe its shapes and patterns.   Explain your choice of shapes, colours and images. For inspiration, you will use the Internet to look at flag designs. Pick 2 flags that you like to describe using math language.

THE PROCESS

PART A

1. Go to one of these websites and look at their selection of kites:

   World Flag Database
   Flags of All Countries
   Flags of the World

   Try clicking on the flags to see a larger version of a flag.

2. Choose 2 of your favorite flags.   Print a picture of each flag. Make sure that you can describe them using math language. What shapes can you see? Are they congruent? Do they have a line of symmetry?
3. In writing, describe them completely.

Part B

1. Now that you have seen many examples of flags designs, start creating your own. Make sure that you follow the rules.

Part C

1. Describe your flag. Use math language.
2. What story does your flag tell? Explain your choices of shapes, colours and images.

RESOURCES

Websites:

World Flag Database
Flags of All Countries
Flags of the World

Materials:

paper for your flag
pencil
ruler
coloured pencils/pens
scissors
glue

TASK CHECKLIST Part A
	Did you describe any patterns in the 2 flags?
	Did you describe any symmetry in the shapes?
	Did you identify any congruent shapes?

 

TASK CHECKLIST Part C

Did you describe any patterns in your flag?

Did you describe any symmetry in the shapes?

Did you identify any congruent shapes?

Did you explain your choice of colours, shapes and designs?