Bird of Peace

People around the world are working for peace. Create this universally recognized symbol of harmony as a reminder of what you can do to help.

• 1.

  Have you heard the saying "If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem"? What can you do to promote peace? Can the world be a peaceful place if you fight with others? If you are inconsiderate to strangers? If you gossip about others? With your classmates, discuss how you can work toward harmony every day.

• 2.

  What are some universal symbols for peace? To remind yourself about the need to practice peace every day, in all you do, create a paper mâché Bird of Peace.

• 3.

  Cover your art area with recycled newspaper. Crumple up a piece of recycled newspaper into a large ball. This will be the bird's body.

• 4.

  Tear more newspaper into strips. Mix Crayola® School Glue and water in equal parts. Coat strips with glue mixture. Cover crumpled newspaper completely with two layers of papier mâché. Dry.

• 5.

  Roll newspaper into a small ball and tape to body for the bird's head. Apply two or more layers of newspaper to shape into a bird. Dry.

• 6.

  Paint your bird with Crayola Paint Brushes and Washable Tempera. Add details such as a beak, feathers, and eyes. Dry.

• 7.

  Decorate with Crayola Glitter Glue. Dry.

• 8.

  Poke a partially unfolded paper clip into the bird's back. Pull to secure it. Attach yarn to the clip to hang.

Benefits

• Students examine their attitudes and behaviors regarding peace.
• Students create a universal symbol of peace.
• Students explore the craft technique of paper mâché.

Adaptations

• Many outreach programs teach conflict resolution and non-violence. Invite one of these groups to become involved at your school.
• Examine the role religion plays in peace. Study different religions such as the Society of Friends where peace is a core belief. What can you learn about the current global conflicts that involve religious groups?
• Research Nobel Peace Prize winners and their contributions towards global peace.
• Debate the question: Is peace the lack of war?
• Learn why the dove is considered a symbol of peace. Research other symbols of peace, such as the olive branch. How have these symbols changed over time? Are they universally recognized?