Beacon Lesson Plan Library
Indian Picture Symbol Vests
DescriptionWhat were some of the picture symbols that Indians used? Students use Indian picture symbols to decorate a vest.
ObjectivesThe student understands basic modes of communication (for example, gestures, oral, written symbols).
Materials-Pre-cut vests made out of paper grocery bags(see associated file)
-Markers for vests
-Chart paper or dry erase board/markers
- A book about Indians that has illustrations that include Indian picture symbols. For example: dePaola, Tomie [The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush]. GP Putnam’s Sons, 1988.
-Class roster with student names on it.
Preparations1. Prepare Indian vest.( See associated file for directions)
2. Class roster with student names on it.
Procedures1. Ask students if they know another way to write words.
2. Explain that today we are going to learn how to use picture symbols like the Indians to write words.
3. Encourage students to share about their experiences with picture symbols.
4. Read a book about Indians that has illustrations that include Indian picture symbols. For example: dePaola, Tomie [The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush]. GP Putnam’s Sons, 1988.
5. Discuss the picture symbols used in the story. Draw on chart paper or dry erase board and label.
6. Have students help brainstorm other picture symbols that the Indians may have used.
7. Draw and label these on chart paper as students generate them.
8. Distribute activity materials (pre-cut vests (see associated file) and markers). Tell students that they will be assessed on completing the activity and drawing 5 Indian picture symbols on their vest that they can identify.
9. Have students draw picture symbols on vest. Walk around room giving directions and corrective feedback as needed.
10. Come back together and have each student share the symbols on their vests. While students share, record individual results on class roster with student names on it.
AssessmentsIndian “Symbol” Vest
Students will use picture symbols used by Indians to produce an Indian “Symbol”
Vest. Vest will have at least 5 Indian symbols and student will be able to identify 5 symbols correctly. Formatively assess students’ vest and responses and record if student has performed that skill on class roster with student names as you circulate around the room.
Extensions1. Use chart paper with Indian Picture Symbols and put on wall in center. Have children wad up pre-cut “animal skins” (cut out of paper bags) to make skins look more realistic. Children decorate animal skins with Indian picture symbols
2. Do the same as above, except use plain paper instead of “animal skins” to provide for practice of writing Indian picture symbols.
Attached FilesDirections on how to cut Indian vests out of grocery bags File Extension: pdf
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