Flag Making Process
A grade 1 /2 and grade 3 /4 buddy class worked together on the Children's Global Arts project...
First we located Belize on a map and viewed photos off the internet. We discussed the culture, climate and life in Belize.
Every child was given a
paper person outline to plan, colour and represent themselves
on. Students had to choose which medium or combination of mediums
they would like to use to represent themselves on the flag.
The choices were: fabric paint, fabric crayon (which was drawn
onto paper then ironed onto the flag), fabric markers and material
or cloth which was hand sewn.
After all the paper people were
finished, each paper copy was pinned around the outside of
the flag. When it came time for a child to work on the flag,
a blank person outline was placed underneath and traced on
top by an adult. Paper was put underneath so the markers and
paints did not get onto the table.
Children were called up 4 at a time to work on the flag. They had to be calm and take their time. One child ran up to the table and grabbed some markers. He was sent from the table to be called back another day when he was more focused and serious. Similarly, a couple of children were asked to redo their 'person' because they had rushed, scribbled and not done their best work. This project was to be their 'best work ever'.
Continents were photocopied and enlarged from a book, cut out and pinned on green material. Once cut out of the fabric, these were placed on blue material were sewn on at home by a parent volunteer.
We all took great care in the process and were really proud to send a sample of our best work across the world to students in Belize.
Making the flag took about one month, two weeks longer than anticipated. Participating in the Global Arts Exchange was a fabulous experience, one students will remember. We look forward to receiving children's artwork from Punta Gorda, Belize. Thanks for organizing this great exchange, Kim Miner