Lesson #1
Paper Tile

Lesson:  Paper Tile
Grade Level:  3rd grade
Project Time: 1 hour
State Standards: 25.B.1
                            26.A.3e
                            27.A.2a
Description: This activity is the first lesson out of two.  It is important to complete this activity before proceeding to the next project.  Making a paper tile first allows for the children to brainstorm, and to gather their ideas.  This is basically a "rough draft".  The paper tile will then be what the children refer to when making their clay tile.
Objective:
   1.  The students will create a design on their tile, making it unique.  (synthesis)
Materials and Resources:
      Per student:
      1.  Pre-cut paper (tile)- 7 in. x 7 in.
      2.  Pencil
      3.  Glue
      4.  Markers
      5.  Hand full of squares (squares approx. 1 in. x 1 in.)
      *   Have extra squares available for students
Procedure:
      1.  Introduction - background info and show example
      2.  Pass out pre-cut paper
      3.  Have each student draw his or her design - in pencil
      *   Remind children that where they plan on using squares they will need to 
           make enough room to fill in design
      *   Also remind students the importance of symmetry
      4.  Once the rough draft is completed have the children glue squares to his 
           paper tile and color his pattern with markers.
      *   Remind children that the 1 in. x 1 in. squares are "tiles" and it is important 
           that they try not to overlap
   5.  Closure and clean-up
Assessment: 
      1.  Did students draw their design before gluing on squares?
      2.  Did the students have fun and take their time?
Helpful Web page:
http://www.pisostile.com/talavera/tradicional.html