Under the Aztec Sun
Use paper plates and colorful Crayola® Paint and Markers to design your own sun.
1. Research the importance of the sun to the Aztec people. Find out how they were represented visually.
2. Draw rays of sun with Crayola Washable Markers on two paper plates. Cut out the rays with Crayola Scissors, and save the cut-out triangles.
3. Cover your work area with recycled newspaper. Mix Crayola Washable Tempera Paint to simulate Aztec colors. Use Crayola Paint Brushes to paint both the fronts and backs of the rays, including the cut-out triangles. Dry.
4. Design sun god faces on the front of each paper plate using paint, markers, and cutout pieces. Dry paint overnight. Attach pieces with Crayola School Glue.
5. Outline the painted features with a black marker. Glue the back sides of the plates together with a string in the middle for hanging.
6. With a partner, identify and discuss similarities and differences among the faces.
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Crayola Washable Paints—Not for use as body/face paint.
Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.
String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.
- Encourage children to arrange their plates so their rays are staggered when glued together.
- Students write reports on different aspects of Aztec life and present them to other children or visitors.
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