Creative Easter Baskets

Overview

This lesson engages 1st class students in the creation of Easter baskets using woven coloured card. It aligns with the Irish Primary School Visual Arts Curriculum and is designed with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to accommodate children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Objectives

• Students will learn about weaving techniques.
• Students will explore colour combinations and patterns.
• Students will develop fine motor skills through crafting.
• Students will enhance social skills through group collaboration.

Curriculum Links

• Visual Arts:
  • Create and make: Use a variety of materials to explore and create.
  • Developing ideas: Use visual language to express thoughts and feelings.
• SPHE (Social, Personal and Health Education):
  • Develop a sense of self and interpersonal relationships through collaborative work.

Materials Needed

• A4 coloured cards (variety of colours)
• Scissors
• Glue sticks
• Rulers
• Markers
• Pre-cut cardboard base for the basket (about 21 cm x 21 cm)
• Optional: Decorative items (stickers, glitter)

Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Engage the Students:

   • Begin with a short discussion about Easter and traditions related to baskets.
   • Show a few examples of woven baskets (real or images) and discuss their features and uses.

2. Objective Setting:

   • Explain that students will be making their own Easter baskets using coloured cards by weaving.

Demonstration (10 minutes)

1. Preparation of Materials:

   • Give each student a cardboard base and a selection of coloured cards (e.g., red, yellow, blue, green).

2. Weaving Technique:

   • Demonstrate how to cut strips from the coloured card (2 cm wide and 10 cm long) and how to weave them through the base.
   • Highlight different patterns (over-under technique) and encourage creativity in colour combinations.

Guided Practice (15 minutes)

1. Individual Work:

   • Allow students to start weaving their baskets while circulating the room to assist.
   • Provide one-on-one support for students who may struggle with the cutting or weaving process.

2. Peer Collaboration:

   • Pair students to discuss their designs and help each other. This helps students with ASD to interact with peers in a structured format.

Independent Work (10 minutes)

• Students will complete their baskets by adding decorative items (stickers or glitter) as per their designs.

Closing Session (5 minutes)

1. Reflection and Share:
   • Invite students to share their completed baskets with the class, explaining their colour choices.
   • Discuss what they learned about weaving and any challenges they faced.

Adaptations for Students with ASD

• Visual Supports: Use visual step-by-step guides showing each part of the weaving process.
• Flexible Choices: Allow students to choose their desired colours and decorations to foster personal creativity.
• Structured Partner Work: Pair students with a peer who is supportive and understanding, ensuring smooth collaboration.
• Quiet Space: Provide a designated quiet area for students to retreat to if feeling overwhelmed.

Assessment

• Observe students during the basket-making process for engagement, creativity, and collaboration.
• Assess completed baskets for understanding of weaving and artistic expression.

Conclusion

This lesson not only teaches crafting skills but also fosters creativity, teamwork, and fine motor development, making it an enriching experience for all students, especially those with unique learning needs. The outcome will celebrate artistic expression while enhancing social skills within the classroom environment.