Early Year 2 – Learning Project: Papier Mâché Mask (Day 2)
On the second day of their five-day environmental learning project, EY2 students moved into the “Understand the Problem” and “Navigate the Ideas” phases. Building on the previous day’s exploration of the 4Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Refuse—students began connecting these environmental concepts with emotional expression through a creative project.
Drawing inspiration from The Colour Monster, students were tasked with designing papier mâché masks that represented a chosen emotion. They critically considered the size, color, and materials they would use to symbolize emotions such as happiness, anger, or sadness. For the mask features, students selected recyclable materials like bottle caps and pom poms for the eyes and nose, and wax paper for the hair, ensuring they aligned their designs with the theme of sustainability.
Before starting their masks, students researched their chosen materials, learning how items often considered waste could be repurposed in creative ways. They then applied layers of papier mâché to balloons, developing fine motor skills and practicing patience as they built the foundation for their masks. This hands-on activity not only reinforced their understanding of recycling but also encouraged them to reflect on how emotions can be expressed visually.
This phase of the project challenged students to think critically and creatively, linking environmental responsibility with personal expression. Tomorrow, they will continue decorating their masks, bringing their ideas to life, and completing a project that beautifully combines sustainability, emotional awareness, and artistic exploration. ***
