Honouring Remembrance

Objective

Students will learn about Remembrance Day through art and French language, enhancing their understanding of historical events while practicing French vocabulary and expressions.

Curriculum Area

Subject: Visual Arts and French
Grade Level: Year 5-6
Relevant Standards: According to CA standards, this lesson aligns with the Visual Arts curriculum by exploring the use of art to convey meaning and emotions, as well as the French Language Arts strand focusing on communication and cultural understanding.

Materials Needed

• White drawing paper (A4 size)
• Pencils, coloured pencils, markers
• Images of Remembrance Day art and symbols (e.g., poppies, war memorials)
• Vocabulary flashcards with French words/phrases related to Remembrance Day
• Whiteboard and markers

Lesson Plan Breakdown

Introduction (2 minutes)

Begin with a brief discussion on Remembrance Day, asking students what they know about it. Engage students by linking the significance of the day to the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Introduce the topic in French:

• "Aujourd'hui, nous allons parler du Jour du Souvenir et réaliser un projet artistique."

Vocabulary Introduction (3 minutes)

Introduce key French vocabulary words and phrases related to Remembrance Day using flashcards. Words can include:

• Le coquelicot (poppy)
• La paix (peace)
• Le soldat (soldier)
• Le mémorial (memorial)
• Le souvenir (remembrance)
• Nous nous souvenons (We remember)

Ensure that students repeat the words and phrases aloud to enhance pronunciation and retention.

Art Activity (8 minutes)

1. Instruction (2 minutes)
   Explain that students will draw their own interpretation of Remembrance Day using the vocabulary words discussed. Encourage them to think about what the day means and how they can express it through their drawings. Provide prompts in French, such as:

   • "Comment pouvez-vous représenter la paix?"
   • "Dessinez un coquelicot et un mémorial."

2. Drawing Time (6 minutes)
   Allow students to start their artwork using the materials provided. Walk around the classroom, offering guidance and feedback en français:

   • "Très bien, j'aime ton coquelicot."
   • "Qu'est-ce que cela représente?"

Conclusion & Sharing (2 minutes)

Ask a few students to share their artwork with the class, using French vocabulary to describe their drawing. For example:

• "Voici mon dessin. J'ai dessiné un coquelicot et un soldat."

Conclude by reinforcing the importance of Remembrance Day and how art helps us to express our thoughts and memories. Encourage students to think about how they can honor and remember these historical events in their daily lives.

Assessment

Evaluate students on their participation and use of French vocabulary during the lesson. Additionally, observe their creativity and effort in the art project, ensuring they have incorporated the discussed themes and symbols.

Teacher’s Reflection

Consider the engagement level of the students with the vocabulary activity and the art project. Reflect on how students were able to express their understanding of Remembrance Day through their artwork and language use. Consider how the lesson can be adapted or expanded in future sessions, perhaps by integrating a history component for further exploration of Remembrance Day events.