The Colorful Life of Quilts

Laura Ashby, Elementary teacher, Thomasboro Elementary

Abstract(PDF)

Unit(PDF)          

Abstract

After learning about color in our unit seminar, I decided to write a unit about quilts, which incorporate beautiful examples of color. This unit is geared towards first graders and has many ideas for incorporating quilts across the curriculum. My main focus will be on color and how it applies to quilts. However, I have also given a wide-variety of ideas for other subject areas.

I have several detailed lesson plans for some fun activities that can be done with a class. I believe they can also be easily adapted for various grade levels. For example, the students will be learning about the color wheel. They will be making their own painted color wheel and then we will turn their color wheels into a class wedding ring paper quilt that can be displayed.

Based on the “Freedom Quilts” used in the Underground Railroad, the students will design their own “secret code” paper quilt block that can be used in class. For example, a paper quilt block could be made that signifies, “Good job!” and “Line up!” We will also make and donate a quilt to Project Linus for a service project to teach the students about having a “kind heart”.