My daughter is in the 5th grade and has to prepare a totem pole based on her family's history...I know how to make a totem pole, but how do you make one based on your family history?
She can include symbols of her ethnic and religious background. From what countries did the ancestors come? What did her grandparents and great grandparents do?
For instance, my family came primary from Great Britain and has been Protestant Christian. My grandparents lived on farms, while my parents moved to Chicago where Dad was a civil engineer.
What factors made believe that the Great Plains would not make good farmland?
Creating a totem pole based on your family history can be a fun and educational project. Here's how you can approach it:
1. Research your family history: Begin by gathering information about your family's background. Talk to relatives, look through old photo albums, and access any available documents or records. Focus on significant events, stories, and symbols that represent your family's heritage.
2. Identify important elements: Determine the key aspects you want to represent on the totem pole. These can include ancestral origins, family traditions, notable achievements, or personal interests. For example, if your family has a Native American heritage, you might want to include symbols specific to that culture.
3. Plan the design: Sketch out your totem pole design on paper. Decide on the number of sections you want to have and allocate each section to a different aspect of your family history. Take inspiration from traditional totem pole designs as well as your own family's unique story.
4. Gather your materials: Depending on the size of the totem pole, you can use materials like wood, cardboard, or even clay. Ensure that the material you choose is sturdy enough to support the design.
5. Create the totem pole: Begin by creating a base for your totem pole using a wooden board or other stable material. If using wood, make sure it is smooth and sanded. Then, cut out or shape the different sections of the totem pole according to your design.
6. Decorate the sections: Paint each section with the appropriate colors and symbols. Use brushes or markers to add details and intricate designs that represent the different aspects of your family history. Consider using colors that have cultural significance or personal importance to your family.
7. Assemble the totem pole: Once the paint has dried, stack and attach the sections together, starting from the base and working your way up. Use an adhesive or nails to securely attach each part, ensuring that the totem pole stands straight and stable.
8. Display your creation: Find a suitable spot to showcase the totem pole. It could be indoors on a shelf, or outdoors in a garden. Share the story behind each section with family and friends, helping them understand the significance of your family history.
Remember to involve your daughter throughout the process, encouraging her to contribute her ideas and artistic skills. This hands-on project will help her connect with her family's heritage while fostering creativity and knowledge about different cultures.