6 sessions; 50 minutes per session

SWBAT use visual images as symbols to express an idea.
SWBAT use printmaking materials.
SWBAT describe doors around the world.

poster board (I used to use old cereal boxes), glue, scissors, wax paper, books

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1. We look at doors around the world as well as the different styles of doors aches, post and lintel. We list of the necessary parts of a door as well as where a door might lead. Sometimes a student suggests an imaginary door other times I have to ask, either way the next line of questions is about magical doorways in stories movies and video games.

2. Students answer the question where does my door lead? What parts do I need on my door? What images on the door will tell the viewer where it leads without using words?

3. Students then do two thumbnail sketches.

4. Students use the best sketch as a plan for the poster board door. The backing of the plate can be poster board but it is better if it is something stronger like mat board. They start with the shape of the door itself.

5. Students cut out shapes. Lines are created by leaving spaces between shapes. Students are required to have at least one spot where there are three shapes stacked.

6. Each day the pieces are stacked with a layer of wax paper between them and pressed under books. Otherwise they curl up.

7. Student roll the plates with black ink and create at least three similar prints.

8. Students label prints.

9. Students use one of the prints that is not similar or the lightest one to create a variation in colored pencil.

10. The plate can be covered in aluminum foil and painted with black.

Students write a reflection statement.
Where does your door lead? What about the door tells the view where it leads? How did your picture/ idea change from the first day to the end of the project? If you had to teach someone new about printmaking what would you tell them?

I have used this project with 4th, 6th and 7th grade. At first students are stuck on a literal door but once they realize that they can be imaginary then the project really takes off. The door ideas can get too complicated for the building methods which is a good lesson in altering ideas to match material.

Shape

Printmaking

English/Language Arts, Geography, History/Social Studies