SUBJECT: Art and Religion
GRADE LEVEL(s): 3rd - 8th

OBJECTIVE:
To develop a great appreciation for the true meaning of Christmas.
TIME: Two class periods, 35 minutes minimum (allow two or more nights to dry between the two periods)

TEACHER MATERIAL(S):
Kids Explore America’s Catholic Heritage pgs. 157-159

MATERIALS (PER WREATH):
1-cup water
1-cup cornstarch
1-cup salt
green food coloring
mixing bowl
1 candle
items for decorations (your choice)
paper plates

ACTIVITIES:
1. Share the background material from Kids Explore pgs. 157-159.
2. Mix in a bowl the water, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Add green food coloring to get a nice green Christmas color.
4. Mix all of the above until the clay gets smooth, add more cornstarch is too wet.
5. Shape the clay into a bagel or donut shape about the size of a regular paper plate.
6. Use a candle to press four holes for the candles.
7. Let the clay dry two or more nights.
8. Decorate the wreath using materials of your choosing!

EXTENSIONS: Children will need to ask their families to furnish the candles which can be purchased cheaply at some of the discount stores.

NOTES: There are many ways you can make Advent Wreaths. Styrofoam circle can also be stuffed with evergreens from your students’ yards.