Technology and Society

Introduction

Lanterns are an important aspect of Chinese culture.

The Chinese Lantern Festival is coming to town. The organisers have asked local schools to design and create a lantern that reflects the special nature of their local community and aspects of Chinese culture. This is a time of celebration.

Task 1

Investigate the type and use of lanterns in Chinese history, their cultural significance and their role in today's society by producing a chart presentation identifying the significance of the lantern.

Knowledge and Understanding

Task 2

See a lantern maker make a lantern and explain the process. Produce a flowchart of the process of making a lantern and list the materials required for making a lantern.

Task 3

Search the website for pictures of lanterns.

Compare and discuss a range of lanterns, some commercial varieties from New Zealand and Chinese communities and some hand made ones. Compare a same/different chart or Venn diagram.

Task 4

Investigate structure and shape constructions with wire and paper to determine successful combinations. Construct a range of straw and pin structures and rank according to strength.

Technology and Society

Task 5

Identify local icons or symbols of the local community and for the Chinese community. List five icons for each and justify their inclusion.

Technology Capability

Task 6

• Establish and list five criteria for a successful Chinese lantern
• Sketch 2-3 ideas for a lantern. Share ideas with another person
• Select one idea and plan it in detail. Justify decisions to the teacher and evaluate the design
• Modify plans if necessary
• Create the lantern
• Evaluate using established criteria

Share your lantern with others or hang them as part of a lantern making competition.