Basic Principles Held by American Citizens
Session 5: Patchwork Quilt of Principles That Unite Americans

Materials

• Materials such as pictures and photographs from magazines, art supplies, including tissue paper, foils (gold and silver), glitter, sequins, glue, markers, crayons, and fabric
• 6” x 6” pieces of colored construction paper ( 1 per student)
• Poster board or a long piece of white craft paper

Instructional Activities

1. Ask students if they have ever seen a patchwork quilt. Discuss how many different smaller pieces add to the uniqueness of the larger quilt.
   
   
2. Explain that they will create a paper quilt from squares, which represent the individuality of each student. These squares, when pieced together, will reflect the uniqueness of the class as a whole.
   
   
3. Give each student a quilt square, a 6" x 6" piece of colored construction paper.
   
   
4. Instruct them to write their names on the square and decorate it to illustrate qualities, talents, and experiences they respect in themselves. Drawings, pictures from magazines, words, and photographs may be incorporated. Also, have on hand art supplies, including tissue paper, foils (gold and silver), glitter, sequins, markers/crayons and fabric.
   
   
5. Glue these pieces together on poster board or a long piece of white craft paper. Create a wide border for the quilt and write the basic principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and equality under the law on the border. Also, write the words Pledge of Allegiance and Independence Day (Fourth of July). Hang the quilt in the classroom.