Method 1: Simple Cone Wigwam (Easier)
This method uses minimal materials and is great for younger elementary students.
Materials:
* Large piece of brown construction paper or felt: At least 18x24 inches, or bigger for a larger wigwam. You can also use several smaller pieces taped together.
* Scissors
* Glue stick or tape
* Optional decorations: Small twigs, leaves, colored paper, markers to decorate.
Instructions:
1. Make a cone: Draw a large circle on the back of the construction paper/felt. Cut out the circle. Cut a line from the edge of the circle to the center. Roll the circle into a cone, overlapping the edges you cut, and secure them with glue or tape. This forms the main body of the wigwam.
2. Create a base: Cut a circle slightly larger than the base of your cone. This will be the base of your wigwam. You can use the same material or a different colored one.
3. Attach the base: Glue or tape the base circle to the bottom of the cone.
4. Decorate: Add details like a flap for a door, or use markers to draw patterns. You can add small twigs or leaves around the base to simulate the natural setting.
Method 2: More Realistic Wigwam (Slightly More Advanced)
This method involves more construction steps but creates a more structurally sound and visually appealing wigwam.
Materials:
* Several long sturdy sticks or dowels: About 12-18 inches long (depending on the desired size). At least 8-10 sticks. You can use chopsticks or craft sticks if nothing else is available.
* String or yarn: Strong enough to hold the sticks together.
* Large piece of brown fabric or paper: Cut into a large rectangle, big enough to cover the sticks when arranged in a circle.
* Scissors
* Stapler or tape
* Optional decorations: as above
Instructions:
1. Create the frame: Arrange the sticks in a circle on a flat surface, leaning them inward to form a cone shape. Try to keep them evenly spaced.
2. Bind the sticks: Tie the sticks together at the top using the string or yarn, tightly securing them. You might need to wrap the string several times and tie it off securely.
3. Cover the frame: Drape the fabric or paper over the stick frame, pulling it taut.
4. Secure the fabric: Staple or tape the fabric to the sticks at the base, ensuring it is snug. You may need to cut and overlap the fabric to fit properly.
5. Decorate: Add details like a flap for a door, or use markers to draw patterns. Again, adding small twigs or leaves can enhance the realism.
Important Considerations for Elementary Students:
* Safety: Supervise children closely when using scissors and staplers.
* Simplicity: Choose the method that best suits the students' age and skill level.
* Collaboration: This project can be a great group activity.
* Presentation: Encourage students to research and present facts about wigwams alongside their models.
Remember to adapt these instructions to the materials available and the students' abilities. The most important thing is to have fun and learn!