What is mandala?
The word “mandala” is from the classical Indian language of Sanskrit. Loosely translated to mean “circle,” a mandala is far more than a simple shape. It represents wholeness, and can be seen as a model for the organizational structure of life itself–a cosmic diagram that reminds us of our relation to the infinite, the world that extends both beyond and within our bodies and minds.
Describing both material and non-material realities, the mandala appears in all aspects of life: the celestial circles we call earth, sun, and moon, as well as conceptual circles of friends, family, and community.
Extract: Bailey Cunningham
Picture- Tibet Mandala
This form of poetry is great way for young children just starting to write to enjoy making poetry. Older children who struggle with poetry find this form of poetry non-threatening. The poem is created using the circular geometric shape of the mandala.
Our Prep Inquiry is outlined below:
Who we are
An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human.
Central Idea
I belong to a family, a class and a school.
The children have helped to create a class mandala to display their understandings and reflections. Our mandala includes family photos, drawings, and statements that the children have made.
The children will be creating their own mandalas where they are the central focus. The ideas that have been put forward by the children have been insightful.
The children have also been doing self portaits. I’ve included some photos because they’re beautiful.
Cheers Nina
Nina Davis: Teaching & Learning in Australia 