SYMBOLS OF MY LIFE
6th Grade
Lesson Title: Symbols of My Life – Symbol Prints
Grade Level: 6th Grade
Class Size: 22 students
Length of Period: 45 min.
LESSON TOPIC AND DESCRIPTION:
This lesson is adapted for one class period:
In this lesson students will be given the opportunity to explore the world of symbols by creating a symbol that is meaningful to them.
STAGE 1: DESIRED RESULTS
ENDURING UNDERSTANDINGS:
Students will understand that:
• Symbols can communicate ideas and information visually.
• Many symbols have different meanings.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
• How do symbols communicate information?
• Why do symbols have multiple meanings and messages?
• Where do we see symbols in everyday life?
STATE STANDARDS ADDRESSED:
1. Methods, Materials, and Techniques. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the methods, materials, and techniques unique to the visual arts.
2. Elements and Principles of Design. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the elements and principles of design.
3. Observation, Abstraction, Invention, and Expression. Students will demonstrate their powers of observation, abstraction, invention, and expression in a variety of media, materials, and techniques.
ACQUISITION/ LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
• Students will be able to identify the purpose of symbols.
• Students will be able to clearly communicate their ideas through their simplified symbol.
• Students will share their symbols with one another at the end of class.
STAGE 2: ASSESSMENT EVIDENCE
PERFORMANCE TASK OR FINAL PRODUCT:
The final product will be a finished personal symbol printed using scratch foam and washable marker.
EVALUATIVE CRITERIA:
Did the students use their time wisely?
Did the students put forth effort into their work?
Did the students demonstrate respect towards the teacher and the art materials used?
Did the students participate in the discussion and in making the final product?
Did the students listen and use new knowledge of symbolism?
Did the students understand the process of printmaking?
STAGE 3: LEARNING PLAN
MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT:
• Sketch paper
• Pencils (dull for scratching into foam)
• Scratch Foam
• Crayola washable markers
• Sponges
• Water Buckets
• Watercolor Paper for printing
VOCABULARY WITH DEFINITIONS:
Symbol: something that stands for or represents something else
Etch: cut or carve (a text or design) into a surface.
Printmaking: a process that is capable of producing copies of the same image.
TEACHER INSTRUCTION:
• The teacher will introduce the concept of symbols and how they function.
• The teacher will show students a personal symbol they created and explain its significance.
• The teacher will demo the process of printmaking.
• The teacher will have students brainstorm ideas for a unique symbol to represent their individual identities.
Students’ symbols can represent:
* A particular feeling or emotion that is personal.
* Hobbies and other images that match their personality.
* An image that represents personal values.
• The teacher will remind students that this symbol must remind other people of "who you are" each time they see it.
• The teacher will have students sketch their ideas.
• The teacher will provide printing materials when students finish their sketch.
• The teacher will instruct students to share their personal symbols with the group.
QUESTIONS TO GENERATE DISCUSSION:
What is a symbol?
How are symbols created?
Why do we create symbols?
Can symbols have different meanings?
LEARNING ACTIVITY:
• Students will discuss the concept of different signs and symbols.
• Students will learn the process of printmaking.
• Students will sketch or brainstorm 2-4 ideas for their personal symbol.
• Students will draw or “etch” their symbol into the scratch foam.
• Students will share their unique symbols with the class.
DIFFERENTIATION:
• Examples of finished works will always be displayed on the board.
• Directions will be given verbally and written out on the board to accommodate different learning styles.