Japanese Carp Kites/Children's Day
4. Assessment & Closure
Evaluate student work based upon the following criteria:
- Completion of kite: Did student follow directions with little assitance?
- Understanding of Japanese Children's Day, carp symbolism, and purpose of carp kite
- Neatness of project: Did students trace template accurately? Did students cut along traced lines? Did student draw and color carp details with care?
- Use of Materials and workspace: Did student use materials, such as scissors and crayons, properly? Did student discard paper scraps? Did student put away all art materials when project was completed?
*Please note that the dowel ends can be a danger to students if not handled properly. Students may be tempted to use dowels as swords or to wave kites near other children. Explain to students that kites must be handled carefully.
Across the Curriculum
Have students write a journal entry about making their first carp kite or a response to hearing the story of a young girl striving for equality on a holiday typically celebrated for Japanese boys. Have they ever wanted to participate in something and not been allowed because of their age or gender?
Have students draw a 1" circle using a compass. Cut out multiple circles from tissue paper and glue them onto the kite's surface to create scales.
Have students research other holidays that Japan celebrates. Have students make a map of Japan and label its landmarks and/or prefectures.
Continue to: 5. Books & Web Sites