Lesson Plan (Middle/High School) A Work in Progress

Names:                                                                                                                                                        Grade Level: 6^th and up

Title of Lesson: Dios de Muertos!

National Standards:

Texas Essential Knowledge Skills (TEKS): 117.5 (3) - Historical/cultural heritage. The student demonstrates an understanding of art history and culture by analyzing artist styles, historical periods, and a variety of cultures. As records of human achievement Students develop global awareness and a respect for the traditions and contributions of diverse cultures.

Objectives:

1. Create a ceramic skull and decorate it with glaze
2. Learn about Mexican Culture

Introduction:
Vocabulary: Illustration, Dios de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Clay, Ceramics, Glaze

Social/Historic Context for Lesson: Learning about Mexican culture and why they celebrate this holiday

Historic Artists Used: Frida Kahlo (great example of a female, Mexican artist)

Contemporary Artists Used: David Lozeau

Books: unsure yet

Websites: http://www.californiamuseum.org/day-dead

Materials Used: clay, glaze, newspaper, tools for clay

Technology Used: Computer to look up typical Day of the Dead decor

Timeline for Lesson: 2 weeks before Day of the Dead, have in class party for actual day

Activity/Procedure:

1. Have the kids learn how to knead the clay and get all the air bubbles out.

2. Teach them how to form a head around newspaper and how to add/remove clay properly.

3. Have them fire their skulls in the kiln.

4. After firing, teach them how glaze works and how to apply.

5. Fire them once again in the kiln for the glaze.

Assessments (objective or subjective):

1. To show the children how to work with clay

2. To have all the children learn about Mexican culture

Future Considerations/Notes: