This proposal did not suggest the precise content of each of the five programmes required, but simply the range of content to be included across the series as a whole. Perhaps the lack of precise programme by programme themes/content counted against it. As said elsewhere, however, if someone wants to pay me to work them up into something more specific I would be only too happy to do so.
 

THE MAGIC CARPET  
- Patterns in the Muslim World.

  (Five 15' programmes to resource the Arts curriculum in Scotland for 5-7 year olds)
   

Content

The symmetry and rhythm of Number through Magic Squares.
(Addition and subtraction, manipulation and grouping of numbers)

The basic geometric shapes and their expansion into pattern. 
(Recognition and sorting of shapes, combination, rotation and reflection)

3-dimensional shapes and patterns. 
(Structures for building, cuboids, cylinders, domes, muqarnas)

Patterns seen in Nature. 
(Flowers, Snowflakes, Crystals and Atoms)

Patterns in a variety of materials, and the skills required for different crafts. 
(Carpets and Fabrics, Wood and Metal, Brick and Tile)

The History and Geography of the muslim world seen through its Art & Artefacts. 
(Clothing, tools, and architecture in different terrains and climate)

Echoes of muslim patternwork in other cultures. 
(Roman tiles, Celtic knots, Indian mandalas, and Chinese carpets)

 

Presentation

The presenter introduces us to basic shapes showing how they interrelate and join together. Through symmetry and repetition, patterns of line and tone appear and form themselves into the pattern on an electronic carpet. We step on, and the carpet lifts us into the air, and transports us around the world. As we fly, the fabric of the carpet fades, leaving only the pattern between us and the world in relief passing beneath us. The carpet comes to a halt with a match for its pattern in a carpet on the world below. Weavers can be seen, working other patterns into carpets. Our electronic carpet mimics a new pattern and instantaneously transports us home. As new patterns are constructed and discovered, our magic carpet takes us to places where we can see them reflected in fabrics, on buildings, and in the natural world. The presenter tells tales of the people and places that we visit, and shows children devising patterns and building geometric structures of their own.

 

Requirements

Presenter or voice over commentary

Shape creation and manipulation by animated computer graphics

Film illustrating the Natural World

Computer graphics illustrating atomic and crystalline structures

Film illustrating craftspersons at work

Presenter or pupils demonstrating classroom applications

Film of the muslim world and other cultures

Computer animation for transition between items

Rostrum camera for illustrations unavailable on film

 

Applicability

The programmes will be suitable for broad cross-curricular use.

In Scotland, this would be through Expressive Arts (Art & Design), Environmental Studies (Science/Social Subjects/Technology), and Mathematics.

In England, the programmes would be applicable to Design and Technology, Geography and History, as well as being particularly invaluable for use in all the Mathematics Attainment Target Groups.


"Teachers often expressed concern at the general lack of resources available to support the multicultural aspects of primary mathematics; a factor which frustrated their wish to do more." (Aspects of Primary Education : The Teaching and Learning of Mathematics - HMI report)