Before beginning the actual diorama project, sixth grade students should begin by doing research on the history of Thanksgiving and the first Thanksgiving event. A teacher may ask students to write a small report on their diorama scene as well, as a complement to the project. After their research is complete, students should choose a scene in which they would like to depict. Perhaps it will be a Native American village preparing for the harvest, or an image of the pilgrims and Native Americans sitting down to dine together.
Dioramas can easily be made using a few supplies. An old shoebox makes the perfect set-up for dioramas, as it can be set on its side to easily display the scene. Other supplies that are needed include modeling clay to create the figures in the scene, as well as props. Items found around a yard or house can be used to decorate the Thanksgiving diorama as well, such as fall leaves or tiny gourds. Scissors, paints and other decorating objects may be needed as well, depending on how the child would like to design the diorama.
Once the student has all the supplies, he can get to work on the project itself. First, he can decorate the inside of the shoebox with paints, crayons or markers. This will help set the backdrop for the scene. Then the student should create the characters out of modeling clay. Once dry, these can be painted and dressed as well. Set the modeling clay figures in the diorama where they fit best, and then add any props to the project. Once the student decides the scene is just right, the diorama is complete.
Once all the students have brought their dioramas in, they can be displayed in the classroom in the weeks leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday. Allow the students time to observe the other dioramas, and see what other students chose to do with the project. Once the Thanksgiving holiday arrives, students can take their dioramas home to display as a decoration for the holiday meal.