Muralistas
SEL Domain(s): Relationship Building
Relational Risk: Low
Grades: 4-8
*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students
Lesson Description:
Participants will create a large mural showcasing community values. Through group discussions and art, they will depict scenes of practicing and not practicing these values, fostering reflection, teamwork, and creativity.
Materials:
A large roll of butcher paper
Pencils for sketching
Paint (two sets: darker colors and lighter colors)
Paintbrushes
Procedure:
1. Reflect on Community Values:
Ask participants:
"What are the values we want to practice in our community?"
"What would it look like if these values weren’t being practiced?"
2. Divide Into Groups:
Assign each group a community value to focus on.
3. Prepare the Workspace:
Spread the butcher paper on the ground and divide it into sections for each group.
Instruct groups to divide their section of the paper into two halves.
4. Create the Murals:
On one half of their section, use darker paints to depict a scene where the value is not being practiced.
On the other half, use lighter paints to depict a scene where the value is actively practiced.
Debrief Questions:
"What were some of the images that stood out to you on our group mural?"
"Which of these images are things we see often?"
"Which of these images are things we rarely see?"
"Is it possible to make the world a better place by behaving according to our values? Why or why not?"
Variation Ideas:
Individual Focus: Give each participant a smaller section of butcher paper to work on their own value.
Independent Artwork: Allow individuals to create separate pieces rather than group murals.
