Mosaic Masterpieces

Mosaic Masterpieces lesson plan

Explore the ancient Greek art form of mosaics. Discover how to make an intricate mosaic to create a beautiful vase or desk accessory.

  • 1.

    Locate Greece on a world map. Find out about the people and art of ancient Greece and today. Mosaics date back 4000 years or more, when the Greeks pushed terracotta cones into a background for decoration. In the 4th century BCE the Greeks were using precise geometric patterns and detailed scenes of people, animals, or the sea.

  • 2.

    Today, mosaics are made by grouping small pieces of clay, tile, pebbles, or other materials together to form a pattern or design, very much like those of the ancient Greeks! You can make a colorful paper mosaic in this same tradition to decorate a handy pencil cup or vase.

  • 3.

    Cover your art area with recycled newspaper. Color an entire sheet of paper using Crayola® Markers. Be creative, making designs, stripes, or blocks of color. Tear your decorated paper into different shapes and sizes.

  • 4.

    Trim construction paper with Crayola Scissors to fit around a juice can or similar clean, safe recycled container. This is your mosaic background so choose a favorite color! If you want to depict a scene or picture, sketch it with a Crayola Erasable Colored Pencil.

  • 5.

    Glue the paper pieces on the background with a Crayola Glue Stick. Leave a little space between them so the background shows. Add ribbon on the top for a festive look.

  • 6.

    Give your mosaic as a gift or put it on your desk. What will you do with your Mosaic Masterpiece?

Benefits

  • Children research and use traditional Greek methods to construct a mosaic.
  • Children compare and contrast colors, making choices of colors pleasing to them.
  • Children demonstrate their understanding of mosaic construction through their completion of a vase/pencil cup.

Adaptations

  • Research other ancient art forms, or uses of mosaics in other areas of the world.
  • Find out about another component of ancient Greek history, such as architecture or government. Write a short essay and illustrate it with your drawings.
  • Create a unique gift set! Cut a paper towel roll into four pieces. Using the same mosaic method, cover each roll. Use the rolls as napkin rings for a family dinner, with your vase as a centerpiece.
  • Assessment: Check mosaic for completion and accuracy in following directions.