6th grade Molas

In class, I enjoy linking different topics together. I aim to show my students that everything that we learn relates together and that you cannot simply forget a topic because the test is done!

In December, I introduced them to the Panamanian Molas. Molas are a textile art that is traditional of the Kunas, an indigenous group residing in Panama and Colombia. In their language, Mola means clothing or blouse. Their complete outfit includes the blouse and a skirt, a red or yellow scarf, a gold ring in their nose as well as earrings.

Molas are handmade and unique and are made creating different layers to the final product. We took this technique and started our project.

First students were asked to select an animal of their choice. They learned how to make carbon copies of the printed animals. They traced them and colored them. The second layer involved the background. Traditionally this involves some sort of symmetry and eclectic patterns. Each student traced and colored a background.

Once our inspiration was complete, the third layer asked students to incorporate the topic of verbs with their artwork. The idea was to find verbs that we could use in writting a biography about our animals. They produced wonderful stories and incredible art.

Below please find their final products. I am very proud of their hard work.