My students need red, white and blue tempera paints, painting paper, brushes, an iPad, iTouch, protective cover, and charger to create a class handprint American flag.
Handprints are unique, yet when put together take on a grand meaning of togetherness. I want to bring more art and technology opportunities into my classroom, but with budget cuts this has been difficult. Art and technology are an integral part of education and should be woven into everything we do.
First grade is a wonderful year!
Students move from Kindergarten rugs to "big" student desks. They become more independent, yet still love to create with art. These days, that art element is also part of technology. These students have been using technology for most of their lives. They know their way around iPads and iTouches, sometimes better than some adults! I would like to give my students more opportunities to use the tools to which they are accustomed to promote better understanding across the curriculum. Art and technology are crucial to student engagement and expression and can do wonders to bring social studies and science alive.
My Project
First grade social studies focuses on symbols of the United States. Rather than just read about symbols in books, I want my students to research symbols and create a collaborate piece of art representing their togetherness as a class and our togetherness as a country. Students will use the iPad and iTouch to research the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, Liberty Bell, American Flag, and more. In teams, they will explore photos, videos, and with my help, will learn the stories of each symbol. Students will then create a wall size American Flag using their handprints. Students will use the red, white, and blue paint to paint their hands and then make handprints on the painting paper. When dried, students will cut out their handprints and we will arrange them on our wall sized poster to represent the American Flag. Class journalists will use the iPad and iTouch to take photos and video of our progress as a class memory of togetherness. This will be shown at Open House.
Team work and togetherness are important life lessons to teach in first grade.
Art and technology can help students make the connection and make this concept real. With the help of the Lily Sarah Grace fund and other generous donations, I hope to create the best American Flag ever!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Hunter and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.