MATH
Children who lived during WWII often made their own toys from paper. Metal was often donated to the war effort. Today many toys are made of plastics. Have the students do a cost analysis of producing a paper windmill, compared to making one out of plastic materials. Discuss issue of the economy and the laws of supply and demand.
HISTORY
Try making a red, white and blue pinwheel to celebrate an American holiday like Veteran’s Day. Have a parade and let the pinwheels spin freely with pride.
LANGUAGE ARTS
Pinwheels are often perceived as a child’s toy. Sometimes they are incorporated into children’s nursery rhythms. Have the students come up with a fun nursery rhythm which talks about children at play with their pinwheels.
SCIENCE
Talk about how the wind is a valuable resource, and how it can be used to supply energy. Discuss the universal need for wind and give examples, like the windmills in Holland.
EXTENSION
Make pinwheels in school colors. Get together as a group and bring them to the next football game or sports tournament. Cheer your team on with spirit and pride, and add stickers and glitter.
Art Infused Cross Curriculum Educational Lesson Ideas – Pinwheels
Ideas for ART INFUSED Cross Curriculum Lesson Plans
