Rainforest Mask

Project: Rainforest Mask
Grades: 2-8

Make the creative leap to the next level of learning easy step by step instruction that integrate core subject with creative activity.

Procedure

• Motivation: Show a video or read a book on the rainforest.
• Have a class discussion on the rainforest habitat appropriate for grade level/unit of study.
• Trace pattern with pencil onto white poster board and cut out. To cut eyes make a starter whole with pencil to begin – cut carefully.
• Using a pencil, lightly draw a symmetrical design on mask.
• When approved by teacher, using 3 or 4 colors of Cray-Pas oil pastels, color in mask in a symmetrical fashion.
• Work to completion, making sure to use the paper towel under the heel of your hands as not to smear the oil pastels.
• Add tongue depressor for handle at bottom of mask with glue. Hold for twenty monkey counts. Monkey counts are counting one monkey, two monkey, three monkey, etc., which gives the glue time to dry.
• With low temp. glue gun add feathers around the edge of the mask for a feathered effect. Make sure you glue feathers onto the back side of the mask. You can create a color pattern if desired. Be careful for even the low temp. glue gun can burn. Hold down tip of feathers with a pencil tip instead of fingers.
• Work to completion with feathers. If low temp glue guns are not available use white glue and a small rectangular paper patch over end of feather. Hold for twenty monkey counts.

Educational Web Links:

• All About the Rainforest of the Americas at www.rainforesteducation.com
• The Animals of the Rainforest at www.animalsoftherainforest.org/frames.htm

Enrichment

• Make another mask.
• Report about functions of masks in history.
• Write a poem about the feathered mask.
• Write a journal entry about making the mask.

Visual Evaluation

• Use of good craftsmanship and thoroughness.
• Symmetry as a design tool.
• Blending of oil pastel for art technique.