Cultural Background-Native Americans

1. The bead work is well known for it's beauty, but it is also known for its integration of mathematics. 

2. The key concept of this lesson is to learn to simulate traditional loom designs. 

3. This design is based on the four fold symmetry design. 

4. All of the images in Four Fold Symmetry #1 because they are symmetrical on both sides. 

5. The four images are the Embroidery by the Plain Indians, the Pawnee Buffalo hide Drum and the Navajo rug. 

6. As explained in Four Fold Symmetry #2, reflection symmetry is when one half of the object is the mirror image of the other half. 

7. One example of base four counting is used in native languages. Four poles are used in tepees and prayers are said to "the four winds."
8. Four fold symmetry is also used to make Navajo sand paintings which are used in healing ceremonies.
9. Four fold symmetry is also used in designing the Yupik parka (a coat worn by the Eskimos).
10. The fifth type of four fold symmetry is the beam loom.
11. Native American bead work was created before the Europeans arrived in 1794.
12. These designs were used to record messages and historic events.