Academic Programs –> National Museum of African Art
National Museum of African Art
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Students use various materials to creatively decorate their own African masks | Pre-trip lesson: This lesson focuses on how one can learn about a group of people simply by studying their artwork. Students first learn the basics of African geography by identifying the continent on the world map and highlighting specific regions within the continent. Students then “read” African masks, examining the materials, texture, shape, color, patterns and symbols used therein. Students explore African masquerade ceremonies and the motivations behind them. Trip: At the Museum students consider size, symbols, texture, shape, color, patterns, and function as they compare African masks. Using their knowledge of African masquerades and the specific events celebrated through masquerades, students decide for which reason a mask was used. Post-trip lesson: For the culminating activity, students create their own African masks. After deciding what they want their mask to show, students use different shapes, patterns, and symbols to demonstrate how their masks would be used. Finally, students test their knowledge of African culture and masks as they compete in a collaborative review game and take written assessments. Academic Standards: Reading (6.LD-V.8); Mathematics (6.M.3); Visual Arts (6.4.3) |
To see select archived trips to the National Museum of African Art, click on the links below.