Lesson Plan: Celebrating Unique Hair with “Pretty Hair”
“Pretty Hair,” starring the spirited protagonist Sophia, is a captivating children’s book penned by Carylee Carrington. In this heartwarming tale, Sophia embarks on a journey to discover the true beauty of her hair. As she meets friends from various backgrounds, she learns that each person’s hair is as unique as their individual stories. This enchanting narrative encourages young readers to embrace diversity and celebrate their own distinct qualities, fostering a sense of self-acceptance and unity. “Pretty Hair” is a charming exploration of self-discovery and the beauty that lies in embracing one’s unique identity.
Grade Level: 1st Grade
Duration: 2 Class Periods (approximately 30 minutes each)
Objectives:
- To introduce the concept of diversity and self-acceptance through literature.
- To explore the book “Pretty Hair” by Carylee Carrington.
- To engage in discussions about diverse hair types and the beauty of individuality.
- To create a simple and inclusive art project.
Materials:
- Copies of “Pretty Hair” by Carylee Carrington
- Whiteboard and markers
- Art supplies (paper, markers, crayons)
- Mirror for each student (small handheld or provided digitally)
Procedure:
Day 1: Introduction to Diversity and Unique Hair
Opening (10 minutes):
1. Begin by discussing what makes each student special and unique. Encourage them to share something they love about themselves.
Reading Activity (15 minutes):
2. Introduce the book “Pretty Hair” by Carylee Carrington, showing the cover and briefly mentioning that it celebrates different hair types.
3. Read the book aloud, focusing on the characters and their diverse hair types.
Discussion (10 minutes):
4. Engage the students in a discussion about the book’s themes:
- How do the characters in the story feel about their hair?
- Why is it important to appreciate and accept our unique features?
- Can you think of something special about your own hair?
Day 2: Celebrating Unique Hair through Art
Self-Reflection Activity (15 minutes):
5. Provide a small mirror for each student or use a digital tool to allow them to see their own hair. Ask them to observe and appreciate their unique hair type.
6. Encourage each student to draw a self-portrait that includes their own hair using art supplies (paper, markers, crayons).
Art Project (15 minutes):
7. Show the students a variety of images or illustrations of people with different hair types (curly, straight, wavy, short, long, etc.).
8. Ask each student to choose one of the images that represents a hair type different from their own and incorporate it into their self-portrait.
9. Encourage them to be creative and use the image as a way to celebrate and appreciate diversity in hair types.
Sharing and Reflection (10 minutes):
10. Have each student share their self-portrait with the class and explain why they chose to include a different hair type in their drawing.
11. Discuss how celebrating diverse hair types promotes inclusivity and acceptance in their classroom.
Homework/Extension Activity (Optional):
- Assign students to share their self-portraits and a brief explanation with their families, promoting discussions about diversity and acceptance at home.
Assessment:
- Informal assessment through participation in discussions, creativity in self-portraits, and the reflection on self-acceptance.
Conclusion:
This lesson plan aims to help 1st-grade students understand the importance of diversity, self-acceptance, and celebrating unique features through the book “Pretty Hair” by Carylee Carrington. By discussing the book’s themes and engaging in a creative art project, students will learn valuable lessons about embracing individuality and fostering inclusivity.
