A mandala is a geometric pattern or chart, typically circular or square. It represents the world, heaven & earth and is used for meditation purposes.
Creating a mandala can be a form of meditation, as well as contemplating a finished mandala. Different types of mandalas are used to represent different elements of Buddhist beliefs and cosmology, but they are generally full of symbolism and richly detailed. Enjoy this presentation.
A good Buddhist Mandala activity can be found here, it might be a nice end-of-term lesson for my class. There is also a fun interactive 'Can you recognise the Buddha?' activity.
A simpler step-by-step Mandala for kids can be found here, could be fun for school holidays (just around the corner)!
An awesome online activity for creating a mandala to express rotational symmetry is available right here, so much fun!
More information about mandalas is available at the mandala project.
