The Power of Words

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_AunHAYpqE

The Classroom...

This is one of the classrooms I have been teaching in. It's beautiful.
For the last few weeks I have been working on four major lessons. The newest focuses on Hindu symbolism and deities in Indian culture. The students have been studying India in their primary classrooms. I introduced them to four Hindu gods and goddesses: Ganesha- god of Wisdom, Krishna- Joy, Freedom & Love, Brahama- the Creator and Shiva- god of Destruction. We talked about symbolism and the different images that represent the deity's nature and personalities.
Deities have three major characteristics, including: physical appearance (facial/body features), accessories, and vehicles. Note: the students understood entirely what a symbol is, but had to ask what 'vehicle' means. This is hilarious and wonderful. Each deity symbolizes a specific idea based on their individual characteristics.
The students were then asked to design their own characters based on the Hindu gods and goddesses that represents who they are and stands as a symbol for what they believe in (i.e. Nature, Love, Happiness, Destruction...). One student chose to give herself a crocodile head with a big mouth because she likes to talk a lot. Her vehicle is a motorcycle because she likes to talk fast.
We will be creating dolls of their characters using Model Magic, twigs and scrap fabric. I am very excited about the thought they have put in to symbolism and understanding these representational aspects of themselves.
Full lesson plan coming soon.

Birds by the incredibly talented second graders...