Create a Lighthouse

Class Overview

• Age Group: 6-7 years (1st Class)
• Duration: 50 minutes
• Class Size: 24 students
• Setting: Classroom with suitable workstations
• Resources: Pringles tubs, cardboard pieces, pebbles, glue, scissors, paint, paintbrushes, markers, construction paper

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Identify the components of a lighthouse and its function.
2. Explore the process of constructing with various materials.
3. Develop fine motor skills through cutting, gluing, and assembling structures.
4. Engage in self-assessment and peer feedback using a structured format.

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Curriculum Links

Strand: Making Constructions
Strand Unit: Construction
Key Skills: Creativity, Critical Thinking, Collaboration

IE Learning Standards:

• Engagement with learning materials.
• Development of spatial awareness through construction.
• Encouragement of self-evaluation and peer assessment.

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Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Greeting & Introduction: Welcome the students and explain what they will be creating today—a lighthouse! Discuss briefly:
   • What is a lighthouse and its purpose.
   • Show a visual presentation of various lighthouses.
2. Demonstration: Using a sample Pringles tub and cardboard, demonstrate each step of the construction:
   • How to cut and shape the cardboard to form the lighthouse top.
   • How to attach pebbles to the base for stability.

Activity (30 minutes)

1. Organise Workstations: Divide students into groups of four and assign each group a workstation with resources.
2. Creating the Lighthouse:
   • Step 1: Using scissors, cut out the cardboard to create the top of the lighthouse (students will be guided by the teacher).
   • Step 2: Take a Pringles tub and decorate it using paint or markers to represent the lighthouse body.
   • Step 3: Attach the cut cardboard onto the top of the Pringles tub using glue.
   • Step 4: Glue pebbles around the base of the lighthouse for a realistic touch.
   • Step 5: Encourage creativity in design; students can add additional features like flags or windows using scrap materials.
3. Teacher Observation: The teacher will monitor each group, providing guidance and fostering discussions about their designs.

Wrap-Up Activity (10 minutes)

1. Art Gallery Walk:
   • Once the lighthouses are complete, students will arrange them around the classroom.
   • Each student will walk around the gallery, admiring their peers' creations.
2. Peer Discussion:
   • After the gallery walk, partners will sit together. Each student will share "1 star" (something they liked) and "1 wish" (a suggestion for improvement) about their partner's lighthouse. Encourage thoughtful listening.

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Assessment

• Pupil Self-Assessment: Each student will reflect on their experience and their creation using guided questions:
  • What did you enjoy most about making your lighthouse?
  • What was challenging, and how did you overcome it?
• Peer Feedback: Monitor the positive dialogues and encourage respectful criticism.

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Reflection

Post-lesson, the teacher should reflect on:

• Student engagement and participation levels.
• Effectiveness of the gallery walk for peer feedback.
• Adaptations needed for future lessons.

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Notes for Teachers

• Allow extra time for students who may need it.
• Consider using a variety of materials for decoration beyond just paint and markers.
• Ensure all safety guidelines are followed, especially while using scissors and glue.