English Language Arts: Applying Language Skills

K-12: Standard 12

• Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Standards for the English Language Arts, by the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English, Copyright 1996 by the International Reading Association and the National Council of Teachers of English. Reprinted with permission.

Source: NCTE/IRA Standards for the English Language Arts 

Fine Arts: Visual Arts

K-4 Standard 1: Understanding and Applying Media, Techniques and Processes

• Students use different media, techniques and processes to communicate ideas, experiences and stories.

K-4 Standard 3: Choosing and Evaluating a Range of Subject Matter, Symbols and Ideas

• Students select and use subject matter, symbols and ideas to communicate meaning.

Source: National Standards for Arts Education

As the academic year begins, create a welcoming environment by learning about student talents and interests. Each student brings a special experience to the class and can find common ground by sharing these interests with others. Have students introduce themselves to their classmates and name one or two of their favorite hobbies. Allow students to decorate individual squares to be laced together as a unique bulletin board celebrating the classroom community. In this way, students have ownership of their learning environment and realize that they are important members of the same team. The teacher can reflect on this bulletin board to develop effective learning strategies based on student experiences.

(Figure A)

(Figure B)

Supplies Used: Cardstock, Construction Paper, Glue, Marking Pens, Photos, Ribbon

The teacher will die-cut the materials for student use prior to the lesson.

1. Die-cut XL Lacing Square #2 using colorful cardstock or construction paper. Die-cut enough Squares for each student (Figure A).
2. Take each student's picture or have the student bring a picture from home. Adhere a picture in each Square.
3. Die-cut various shapes that depict student interests and adhere to the appropriate Square.
4. Use stickers to highlight student names. Adhere the names in the appropriate student Square (Figure B).
5. Using ribbon, lace the Squares together for a unique bulletin board celebrating student interests (See Main Photo).