A thoughtful discussion about self-reflecting leads to a conversation about skin color and making a list of words associated with "beauty." Budding artists use a mirror to examine their features and create a self-portrait. Peers critique finished products, write a journal entry or discuss a series of questions about the lesson. 

Concepts

self portraits, self-awareness, self identity, making observations, social awareness, social-emotional learning, Social & Emotional Learning, self reflection

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Instructional Ideas

• Display finished products at Back to School Night or Open House
• Take pictures of each participant, print them and display them alongside their portrait for comparison

Classroom Considerations

• Requires art supplies, mirrors, and smocks
• Talk about the different colors that pupils mixed to make their unique skin tone

Pros

• Looking closely at one's self helps to understand others better
• Offers two extension activities 

Cons

• None

Common Core

CCRA.W.10 CCRA.SL.1 CCRA.SL.2 CCRA.SL.4 CCRA.SL.6 CCRA.L.1 CCRA.L.3 CCRA.L.6