Lesson Plan Submitted by Susan Laffey
Elementary Teacher at J. A. Coles School in Scotch Plains, NJ.
Grades: Third Grade

Materials:

• Journals
• white paper and pencil
• 6X8 brown construction paper
• tempera paint
• sand
• egg cartons

Procedure:

As part of a Social Studies unit on Native Americans, this art lesson ties together the writing process in Language Arts, the historical facts, and the creation of original sand paintings. The children write Navajo journals pretending to be a Native American for four days. The art project is set up at a learning station and each child rotates through the station.

After lightly penciling in their sketch of the land and environment of the Navajo, the students receive brown construction paper cut to about 6x8 inches. At the art station, the paints have been mixed with sand (any kind will work) and placed in egg cartons.

The children recreate their sketches and design original journal covers for their writing. Tempera paints are used. When dry, the brown paper gives the impression a hide has been painted. Attach to journals and what a beautiful bulletin board they make!