Third Grade Symmetrical Masks

Third Graders really liked this lesson. The first day we discussed What are masks used for? Why are masks worn? Who wears them? What stories can masks tell us? Students looked at a power point of masks around the world and they first made a sketch of a symmetrical mask.

The next class time we used our sketch and began to build a three dimensional paper mask. We discussed how to make a symmetrical shape by folding the paper and cutting on the fold. The shape of the mask was made this way. See belowIn order for the mask to be three dimensional students had to cut a V at the bottom.

Using glue they glued the V together to make the mask pop out.

Once mask was dry student began cutting shapes for the eyes, mouth, nose. There were a couple of art concepts that I looked for in each mask. Mask had to be symmetrical, not just balanced "The mirror image" Shapes had to be identical. They had to fold the paper in half and draw one shape to make multiples. Also at least one shape inside had to symmetrical. Example the noses.

Students were encouraged to have some shapes pop out. Also layering colors added creativity to the masks. Some students did a great job at both of the these. See below.

The final day we discussed "breaking the edge" of the masks. This could be accomplished creating hair, a beard, shapes that went out for horns, ears, etc. With this I demonstrated how to zig zag, curl the paper. These projects turned out great! They made interesting displays on a bulletin board outside the art room and in a display case.