What is a Chord?
A line connecting two points on a circle — and the designs we can make with them.
Let’s start with a circle.
↓
Pick any two points on the circle’s edge.
↓
Connect them.
This is a chord — a line segment connecting two points on a circle.
↓
Your Turn
Draw a circle. Pick two points. Draw a chord.
Now draw a few more — somewhere between 5 and 20 chords.
Have fun! Use color!
↓
Finding Structure
If you want to make designs with chords on a circle, there are many approaches.
What ideas do you have? Try it.
↓
Here’s one approach: start with evenly spaced points.
↓
Draw 10–20 chords connecting those points.
What does your design look like?
Is there order to it? A pattern?
Could you describe an algorithm or rule for someone else to recreate your design?
↓
Assignment
- Create a mathematical rule for making a design with chords
- Name your rule
- Write it down clearly so anyone can follow it
- Draw a circle and chords using your rule
- Write down at least one question or observation about your pattern (What if…? If you change…?)
- Is there anything else you notice or wonder about chords?
- Bring your art and findings to the next session
You can apply mathematical rules while also having fun with color. Feel free to embellish your artwork with a dragon or bird or two — just make sure the chords and pattern stay visible.
↓