Social Studies/Art Integration
Every classroom engaged in a Mosaic project during our 2nd trimester.
Teacher Kirsten Lauer Karahan and her students created mosaic art pieces as
part of their larger study on Native Americans of Washington.
“In Social Studies our 4th grade class became a Pacific Northwest tribe with two clans.
The People of the River were represented by the Black Bear Clan and the Salmon Clan.
Together we role-played historical events and treaties, experiencing both celebrations and loss.
A third group comprised both Salmon and Black Bear Clan members created a tribal crest
that would represent both clans” (Kirsten Lauer Karahan).
Students worked in groups of four. Each member of the group drew a design based on the artwork they learned about in Social Studies. One design was chosen and transcribed onto a rectangular piece of wood. Students glued on multicolored beans and rice to create their mosaic.
The final products represent deep learning and joyful collaboration.
With awe,
Principal Susan Kilbane
