Objectives:

• Learn that each culture has its own written  communication.
• Understand our alphabet as a means of communication within our culture.
• Practice with identification of letters of the alphabet.
• Recognize and create patterns with beaded letters.

Curriculum:

• Language arts-individual letters and formation of letters into words and names.
• Sociology-cultures throughout history develop need for written communication.

Classroom Materials:

• Mr. Sketch® or Sharpie® markers (for permanent lettering or color), yarn or string, large darning needle for threading, self-hardening clay (available at craft stores, or use recipe below).
  • 1 or 2 slices white bread, crusts removed
  • 1 T. white glue
  • Tear bread into tiny pieces, add glue, and mix with fork. Knead mixture until it becomes soft and pliable.

National Art Standard:

• Understanding the visual arts in relation to history and cultures.

Art Achievement Standard:

• Know that the visual arts have both a history and specific relationships to various cultures.

The Lesson:

After reading some books about beads, discuss where beads may have originated and the different cultures that make and wear beads. Show some examples of actual beads. Let students carefully handle them, discussing how they think each may have been made. Point out symbols on beads. Encourage discussion as to possible interpretations of the symbols and what they communicate to others within their culture.
Using self-hardening clay, allow students to make their own set of beads. Have students form 26 round or square beads with their hands. Using the needle, or a toothpick, put a hole all the way through each bead. After students have modeled their set of beads, allow them to dry for one to three days. When beads are dry, use markers to add colors, shapes and letters of the alphabet. You may wish to house beads in recyclable containers that have been covered with paper and decorated with markers.

Suggested Resources:

Books
Reid, Margaret S. A String of Beads. Dutton Children's Books, 1997.
Adams, Pam. Ten Beads Tall. Child's Play Intl Ltd. 1990.
Quality Art Reproductions, Inc.
27 Glen Road, Sandy Hook, CT 06482 203-426-8100

Encourage children to make their own beads, round or square.

Use a needle or toothpick to put a hole all the way through. . .

Use markers to add color once beads are dry.

Decorate paper covered container to store beads.