The Art of Zen

Project Description

The Art of Zen is a project that promotes Social Emotional learning. This projects breaks down into 4 parts. The first step of this project is to talk about mediating. How you can “Zentangle” patterns and designs by slowing down and entering a meditative mindset. Students then take those drawings and scan them onto a computer so that they can be etched into wood via the schools laser cutter. Once their pattern has been laser cut students will take their Zen etchings and press clay in between them, creating a pendant with their Zen drawings. Those pendants will be fired in the kiln, and then students will have the option to add essential oils, reading up on which oil best fits their social emotional needs. This project teaches digital fabrication, the use of multiple materials, and mass replication which are all engineering standards in NGSS while also supporting social emotional learning standards and the art and design standards.

How will the project be evaluated (e.g. how will you gauge its success)?

This project will be evaluated by the structural function of the pendant, and the design criteria of their Zen drawing.

Benefit to the students and the school

The Art of Zen gives students a skill to use for when they are frustrated or overwhelmed. Builds on the idea that natural medicine can be an option to help with stress. This project also provides students with an opportunity to prepare for the 8th grade science test in a hands on manner.

Timeline of Project (when will you do the project, if applicable)

Budget will be used to buy materials such as clay, pine paneling, essential oils, jewelry findings such as cords, and clasps.