Construction Design Mathematics: the geometry of a volute of an Ionic column

The volute is the principal distinguishing feature of the Ionic order, the spiral located on either side of the capital of a column,

School Curriculum: Mathematics at Key Stages 2,3 & 4. Drawing a volute with semicircles will enable students at Key Stages 2 & 3 to create a pattern with repeating shapes in different sizes and orientations. In doing so, students will become familiar the the properties of a circle (circumference, radius, diameter). The drawing will also provide a visual element for the calculation of the perimeter of a semicircle.

At Key Stage 4 drawing a volute with quadrants will facilitate the calculation of arc length subtended by those quadrants.

There is also a brief history of the Ionic volute and its symbolism.