Creating Egyptian Artifacts

Lesson Overview

Duration: 45 minutes
Class Size: 28 students
Year Group: 5-6 (Ages 9-11)

Curriculum Framework Reference: The National Curriculum for Art and Design (Key Stage 2)

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Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Design and create their own Egyptian artifact using drawing techniques.
2. Incorporate hieroglyphics and landscape elements to depict the significance of their artifact.
3. Present their artwork to the class, demonstrating an understanding of Ancient Egyptian culture and art.

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Resources Needed

• A4 sketch paper (28 sheets)
• Pencils and erasers (28 sets)
• Coloured pencils or markers (multiple colours, enough for sharing)
• Reference images of Ancient Egyptian artifacts and hieroglyphics (printed)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector for presentations (optional)

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Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Recap Previous Knowledge (5 mins)

   • Begin the lesson by asking students to recall key elements of Ancient Egyptian art and culture discussed in previous lessons. Prompt with questions:
     • What materials did Ancient Egyptians use for their artifacts?
     • What were some common themes found in their art?

2. Introduce Today's Activity (5 mins)

   • Explain that students will design and draw their original Egyptian artifact, incorporating hieroglyphics and landscapes. Provide examples using reference images.

Main Activity (30 minutes)

1. Artifact Design (15 mins)

   • Distribute A4 sketch paper and drawing materials.
   • Instruct students to brainstorm ideas for their artifacts. Consider:
     • Purpose of the artifact (e.g., religious, ceremonial, decorative).
     • Hieroglyphics that could represent its importance.
     • Landscape elements setting the scene (e.g., the Nile River, pyramids).

2. Independent Work (15 mins)

   • Allow students time to sketch their designs, ensuring they incorporate:
     • Hieroglyphics relating to the theme of their artifact.
     • Any landscape elements they've learned about in previous lessons.
   • Circulate the room to provide support and feedback on their concepts and techniques.

Presentation and Reflection (5 minutes)

1. Art Presentation (5 mins)
   • Invite each student to present their drawing to the class. For each student:
     • Explain the significance of their artifact and the hieroglyphics used.
     • Describe any landscape elements and their relevance.

Conclusion (Optional Extension)

• Reflective Writing (if time permits)
  • Provide students with a few minutes to write a short reflection on:
    • What they learned about Ancient Egyptian art through this project.
    • What they enjoyed most about creating their artifact.

Assessment Opportunities

• Formative Assessment:
  • Teacher observation of student engagement and understanding during the brainstorming and creation process.
  • Peer feedback during presentations to encourage dialogue about each other's work.

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Differentiation Strategies

• For Lower Ability Students:

  • Provide templates and guided drawings of artifacts to help with structure.
  • Support with a vocabulary list of simple hieroglyphics to choose from.

• For Higher Ability Students:

  • Encourage them to study specific historical artifacts and integrate additional research into their presentations.
  • Challenge them to draw complex scenes that incorporate multiple landscape elements.

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Cross-Curricular Links

• History:

  • Reinforces knowledge of Ancient Civilisations, specifically Ancient Egypt.

• Literacy:

  • Opportunity to develop oral skills through presentations and written reflections.

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Reflection for Teachers

After the lesson, consider the following:

• How engaged were students throughout the design and presentation process?
• Did students effectively incorporate learning from previous lessons?
• What aspects of the lesson were most successful, and what could be improved for future units?

By reflecting on these questions, educators can adapt and enhance future art and history lessons.