Exploring Architecture: Mirrored Worlds & Tessellation (LIVE)
In this maker-based workshop, learners explore how tessellation (a repeating pattern with no gaps or overlaps) inspires buildings, landscapes and fantastical worlds as we design and build an inhabitable tessellated structure.
Fifi Henderson
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(306)
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Inspired by the world of Mirrodin where everything is made of metal—from forests to mountains to grass – we take a close look at tessellation and how these simple geometrical forms can be used as a starting point for big ideas in design. We’ll learn about the tessellation all around us – from architecture and animals to puzzles and art. Together, we’ll create a tessellated design for an architectural purpose of your own choosing. We will start with a slideshow to introduce the concept of tessellation and how it inspires design in architecture, card games, flooring, toys and graphic design (it's everywhere!). Next, students will be guided through a very simple method of constructing tessellations to craft their own version of an inhabitable landscape and/or a building. We will end with a short, optional show & tell with an opportunity for feedback from classmates and the instructor.
Learning Goals
Wicked Workshop is a maker-based program that introduces youth to architecture through reality-based projects that tackle "wicked" problems like inadequate housing and environmental health. We teach decision-making strategies, complex problem solving, and critical thinking methods recognized as vital 21st century skills necessary to succeed in work, life and citizenship through a straightforward hands-on curriculum based on authentic projects that foster independent thinking, self-directed learning, exploration, iteration and creativity.
In Mirrored Worlds & Tessellation, we focus on how simple connected geometrical shapes can inspire creativity in the built environment. We use architecture to bring to life imaginative ideas that encourage problem solving, big and small. Students practice fine motor skills and empathy while working to connect several parts and pieces to create a convincing habitable design.
Other Details
Supply List
Below is a list of materials to gather for our project. We will be demonstrating with: Cereal Box or chipboard (if you'd like to prepare ahead a bit, we'll be cutting the box or chipboard into several strips - around 1" x 8-10" (however long the cereal box is in the short direction - any length will do). masking tape Scissors Glue stick Once our design is complete, it's fun (but not critical) to think about mirroring it with details and embellishment at the end: Anything shiny! aluminum foil mirrored paper/cardstock holographic stickers mirrored/holographic tape sequined fabric jewels with sticky back shiny beads, etc. Feel free to use hot glue at the end to attach shiny things if your learner is skilled with this tool.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined July, 2020
4.9
306reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Wicked workshop is taught by Phyllis (Fifi) Henderson. A mom to two active girls, an architect and an educator, Fifi creates learning experiences opportunities that build self-esteem, independence and critical thinking skills. As an educator with a PhD in architectural history and theory, she recognized that Design Thinking was being used outside of professional design practice to help resolve issues in multiple industries including business and societal sectors. Design Thinking is a non-linear, strategy-based process for problem solving that tackles issues through empathy and iterative hands-on making. It was developed by Stanford University’s “d” school for people in business, higher education, the public sector and K-12 education as a process to create real change. As an architect, Fifi practiced this methodology and recognized it as a direct extension of her traditional university architecture school curriculum. After completing her PhD, she decided to scale that learning experience for a younger audience. Working with kids on big problems has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career and she is continually energized by the ideas, dynamism and joy that kids bring to wicked problems.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$12
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 23 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
3-18 learners per class
