Mask Making Introduction and Research Lesson

Description

Lesson Goals: To better understand the steps and process involved in preparing to design an
art work, through discussion, brain storming, and research
To Introduce Masking Theme

Outcomes Targeted: GCO 3.1 Examine the role and influence of visual images in their daily lives,
including mass media, and popular culture.
GCO 4.1 Develop an appreciation of diversity among individuals as reflected in
their art.
GCO 4.4 Identify and describe characteristics of art from different cultures and
periods in history.
GCO 7.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship of form and function
when solving complex problems.

I Can Statement: I can understand how to research art ( masks) in order to identify similar and
different characteristics that will assist me in making decisions in my own art
(mask).

Key Vocabulary and Collaboration, research techniques

Skills:

Material Needed: Access to internet (ie. personal device), Mask making research sheet, pencil,
computer, LED Projector

Your Learners: A group of Grade 8 students with assorted range of abilities.

Lesson:

I. Introduction (Teacher organized)

Mask Making Complete Lesson Mask Making Introduction and Research Activity

Discuss the importance of understanding how an artist generates an idea and brain storms through contemplation,
and research in order to create their designs.
Introduce the theme of Masks and explain how students will learn how to develop their own design through
investigative research just as other artists do.

Driving Question: What are the differences in masks found around the world in regard to: types, use, size, shape,
colour, materials, etc.

Time Allotted: 20 minutes

II. Guided Learning (Teacher/student collaboration)

Discussion/ Brainstorming
As a group, discuss and make a list of types of masks, and purposes for masks students can generate.
Ie. Uses: Protection, disguise, intimidation, frighten, safety, ceremonial, ritual, costume, etc.
Types: Halloween, Warrior, surgical, hockey, scuba, welding, drama, etc.
Generate a list of places/ cultures where the oldest types of traditional masks might be found from around the world.
Ie. Africa, Spain, China, North American Native, Mexico, India
Show some examples of traditional style masks from around the world.
Traditional Mask Examples
Discuss what characteristics they notice about them, ie Shape of mask, style of eyes, nose, and mouth, materials used,
colours, uses, etc.
Explain that when artists are working out an idea, like mask making, they will research examples and look for common
characteristics that will help them decide on how to proceed in their own design.

Time Allotted: 1 Hour

III. Collaborative Learning (Student focused activity)

Procedure:
Have students break into groups of 3.
Hand out Mask Research Work Sheet
Mask Research Work Sheet
Have each group choose a different cultural group from list to research.
Explain the type of information they should focus on.
Ie. Uses, common characteristics, and features, materials, common colours.
Help engage each student by asking questions about their research, giving hints as to where to look, helping them find
examples.

Time Allotted: 20 minutes

IV. Grand Finale End of class sharing:

When students are done, have each group share their information with the class. (Teacher can expand and help
students make connections within their ethnic group as well as with each ethnic group)
Teacher shows online examples of masks from each groups ethnic group
Discuss Results

Time Allotted: 30 minutes

Differentiation
Encourage input from all students
Groups can divide research work to play to each group members strengths. Ie. Recorder, presenter, visual
exploration, or data researcher, etc.

Assessment and Evaluation:

Each group member gets 100% for participating in activity if their name is attached to the completed research sheet
and handed in.

Adaptations and IPPs: Judgement can be used to help assemble groups.

Ie. Number off groups, etc.
Students can record information using their assistive technology.
Teacher can assist in aiding as needed.