Cover shoe boxes in white paper and hot glue the boxes together to form a life-size igloo. Begin on the bottom row by creating a circle that is approximately five feet in diameter. Leave an opening that is about one foot in width for the door. Stagger the boxes for the next row. After about four rows, begin to place the boxes closer to the center to create the curved top. At about this level, you can make a complete circle with the boxes. Create an extended door with additional boxes.
After learning about Arctic regions, igloos or the Eskimo or Inuit people, encourage the children in silent acting. Without the use their voices or props, ask the children to act out different situations. Scenes can include activities such as fishing, hunting, traveling by dog sled, kayaking and other typical activities of Arctic people. Encourage the students to pretend that they are building an igloo and then continue pretending with day-to-day activities, such as building a fire and cooking.
Provide the children with a large box filled with clothing. Include winter items such as hats, mittens, scarves, boots, and coats but also include traditional summer clothing, such as sunglasses, flip flops and beach towels. You might also include rainy weather items, such as an umbrella and galoshes. Ask children what they would wear if they were building an igloo. Encourage them to imagine that it is snowing. This activity is especially fun during warmer months, as the children try to envision cold, wintry days.
Read books about Eskimos and igloos to the children. Consider including books such as "The Polar Bear Son" by Lydia Dabcovich, "Living in the Arctic" by Allan Fowler or "Building an Igloo" by Ulli Steltzer. As you read, point out details in the photographs, such as the types of food the woman feeds the polar bear in "The Polar Bear Son." Encourage the children to think beyond the book, such as imagining that they are the photographer in "Building an Igloo." Ask the students to act out the books as an impromptu play. Encourage them to add new scenes or change the ending.