Instructional Activities-Lesson 1

Big Idea:  Patterns With a Purpose

Learning Objectives:

·        Investigate patterns from other cultures

·        Compare/contrast patterns from other cultures.

·        Create a pattern based on meaning and interpretation of an idea important to them

·        Graphically depict the pattern on wrist or shoulder through means of pen and ink (henna tattoo set)
 

Essential Questions:

·        Why study patterns?

·        How do patterns change from one culture to another?

·        How can cultural groups be identified from artifacts containing patterns?

·        What do the patterns/styles/media tell us about a culture?

·        How can a pattern be symbolic?

·        What ideas are important to me?

·        How can I depict my ideas through patterns?

·        What is the purpose of art performed "on" the body?

·        Why do I want to perform art "on" my body?

·        How will I describe my ideas that are shown through my tattoo art when approached by others?

Activities:

·        Step !:  Study patterns from other cultures online and from media resources.  Answer essential questions and begin formulation of ideas and representative designs.

·        Step 2:  Create 3 variations of the design on paper in black and white, describing how the pattern reveals ideas important to the student. 

·        Step3:  Choose the final design and create it in color using colored pencil or paint so that a permanent, tangible version remains after the tattoo wears away.

·        Step 4:  Using the final design as a template, students will perform design on self if possible (wrists or shoulder).  If not, students will work in pairs to help render the original design on their partner.

·        Step 5:  Students will perform a classroom critique.  Each will have an opportunity to share the ideas behind the design and describe themself as an artist and as a person.  The class will have an opportunity to ask questions, expand their views by hearing new ideas and also have the chance to complement and constructively criticize.

Instructional Activities-Lesson 2

More lessons to be developed;  Possible ideas:

1.        Pottery patterns

2.     Loom weaving with storyboard pictures/symbolic images

3.     Website or computer graphic design

4.     Stamped or pressed images

5.     Engraving in metal, stone or other surface

6.    Watercolor resist

7.      Batik pattern creations

8.     Ink or scratchboard design

9.     Origami formations

10.  Escher Tessellations