Mandala

Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning “circle”. So, what is a mandala? Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning “circle”. In the Hindu and Buddhist religious tradition, the circle is used as a means of focusing and clearing the mind (such as during meditation); the mandala represents the universe.

What are we going to be doing? We are going to use words, words, and more words. This activity is designed to remind us how much fun words can be. We also will be reflecting on who we are as an individual and what makes us unique!

Our mandala is going to be a circle, with an image inside Our mandala is going to be a circle, with an image inside. The image will be made using words as lines. Let me show you a few examples.

Why are we doing this? Creating a Mandala will be a way for us to investigate our own personalities and to have fun with words! It is also really good practice at using descriptive words You will need a sheet of paper and something to write with. Label your paper with the title “Mandala” and put your name, class period and the date in the corner. First we will be brainstorming to prepare for our mandala.

Your mandala: pre-writing To begin your mandala, split your blank piece of lined paper up into six columns (use front and back for this; 3 on each side) Number each one of the columns with 1-15 down the left side. Label five of the columns with the five senses: Taste, Touch, Sight, Smell and Sound Label the last column with Action

Your mandala: pre-writing STEP ONE: brainstorm ONE SINGLE WORD to represent you. Not the physical you, but who you are as a person. The things that make you unique. It should describe YOU! Think in the abstract! Your word should be an abstract noun or adjective! Write this word at the top of your paper and circle it. STEP TWO: come up with 15 for each of the 6 lists. Think of words that fit with each of the senses, and action words. These should be things about you, things you like, things that would remind people of you, etc. Check the spelling of your words- nothing ruins this project faster than mispeslled wodrs!

Creating your mandala When you are ready to begin your Mandala, get a blank piece of computer paper. You must have a pencil! This way you can fix any mistakes. You are welcome to use bigger paper if you want, but you need to provide it yourself. Your picture and words need to work together to form a complete image. Don’t forget: the Mandala is shaped in a circle. Required Parts: (see examples for clarity) Your picture and words should work together to form a complete image within the circle, and form the circle. The image should represent something about you. Within the circle you must also include all of the words you came up with on your lists that have not been used in the formation of the circle or image. You also need to have your abstract word written out. This can be part of the Mandala, or outside it; it needs to be bigger than the rest of the words, so that it is clear to the viewer that it’s the word you chose.