Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Art: Ancient Mesopotamia

Objectives

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

This stage aims to introduce students to the theme of art in Ancient Mesopotamia, highlighting both theoretical and practical aspects. Through understanding mythological representations and Mesopotamian architecture, students will appreciate the historical and cultural relevance of this civilization. Additionally, this theoretical foundation will be essential for subsequent practical activities designed to develop competencies applicable to the job market, such as critical analysis, creativity, and construction and design skills.

Main Objectives

1. Understand the concept of art in antiquity within Mesopotamian society.

2. Identify and describe the mythological representations in Mesopotamian art.

3. Recognize the main characteristics of Mesopotamian architecture.

Side Objectives

1. Relate Mesopotamian art to the social and cultural contexts of the time.
2. Develop critical analysis skills regarding ancient art and architecture.

Introduction

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

This stage aims to introduce students to the theme of art in Ancient Mesopotamia, highlighting both theoretical and practical aspects. Through understanding mythological representations and Mesopotamian architecture, students will appreciate the historical and cultural relevance of this civilization. Additionally, this theoretical foundation will be essential for subsequent practical activities designed to develop competencies applicable to the job market, such as critical analysis, creativity, and construction and design skills.

Contextualization

Mesopotamia, known as the cradle of civilization, was one of the first societies to develop complex forms of art and architecture. Situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, this region hosted various cultures that left an impressive artistic legacy. Mesopotamian art was not only decorative but also functional and symbolic, reflecting religious beliefs, political power, and everyday life. Understanding the art of this civilization helps us grasp how these early human societies organized themselves and expressed themselves visually.

Curiosities and Market Connection

樂 Curiosities: Mesopotamia is famous for ziggurats, enormous pyramid-shaped structures that served as religious temples. The Mesopotamians used cylinder seals, small engraved cylinders used to mark documents and properties.  Market Connection: Knowledge about ancient architecture can inspire modern designers and architects, especially in creating symbolic and functional buildings. The art of seals and reliefs can be compared to current graphic design, where creating logos and brands is essential for a company's identity.

Initial Activity

 Initial Activity: Show a short 3-4 minute video about Mesopotamia and its artistic contributions, such as the ziggurats and reliefs. After the video, pose a provoking question: "How do you think art can influence how a society is viewed by others?" Guide a brief 5-minute discussion among students.

Development

Duration: 50 - 60 minutes

This stage aims to deepen students' knowledge about Mesopotamian art and architecture through a combination of practical and reflective activities. By building a replica of a ziggurat, students will have the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts in a concrete way, develop practical skills, and collaborate as a team. The fixation and evaluation exercises aim to consolidate learning and stimulate critical and comparative analysis.

Covered Topics

1. Concept of art in ancient Mesopotamia
2. Mythological representations in Mesopotamian art
3. Characteristics of Mesopotamian architecture

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how Mesopotamian art was not only a form of aesthetic expression but also a means of communication and cultural record. Ask how works of art can reflect important aspects of daily life, religious beliefs, and political power of a society.

Mini Challenge

Construction of a Miniature Ziggurat

Students will be divided into groups to build a miniature replica of a ziggurat using simple materials such as cardboard, popsicle sticks, glue, and paints. The objective is to apply the knowledge gained about Mesopotamian architecture practically and collaboratively.

Instructions

1. Divide students into groups of 4 to 5 people.
2. Distribute the necessary materials to each group (cardboard, popsicle sticks, glue, paints, brushes).
3. Explain that each group should plan and build a miniature replica of a ziggurat, one of the most significant architectural landmarks of Mesopotamia.
4. Encourage students to quickly research images of ziggurats for design inspiration.
5. Guide students to divide tasks fairly among group members, such as cutting cardboard, assembling the structure, and painting.
6. Allocate 30 minutes for project execution.
7. At the end, reserve 10 minutes for each group to present their miniature and explain the design choices made.

Objective: Apply theoretical knowledge about Mesopotamian architecture in a practical activity, developing teamwork, planning, and project execution skills.

Duration: 40 - 45 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. Describe the main characteristics of Mesopotamian architecture and explain how they reflect the values and beliefs of that society.
2. Choose a Mesopotamian mythological representation and explain its significance and cultural importance.
3. Compare and contrast Mesopotamian art with that of another ancient civilization, highlighting similarities and differences.

Conclusion

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

This stage aims to consolidate learning by promoting critical reflection on the content covered and the practical activities carried out. The discussion and summary allow students to solidify the knowledge acquired and understand the relevance of the topic for current contexts, while the closure reinforces the importance of connecting theory and practice.

Discussion

 Discussion: Guide students to reflect on what they learned throughout the class. Ask how building the ziggurat helped them better understand Mesopotamian architecture and its cultural importance. Facilitate a discussion about how the art and architecture of Mesopotamia influence even today and ask them to share their perceptions about the practical and reflective activities carried out.

Summary

 Summary: Recap the main content covered: the concept of art in ancient Mesopotamia, mythological representations, and the characteristics of architecture, especially ziggurats. Highlight how these elements reflected daily life, religious beliefs, and political power of the time.

Closing

 Closure: Explain that the class connected theory and practice by allowing students to build a replica of a ziggurat, applying the knowledge acquired. Emphasize the importance of understanding the history of ancient art and architecture, as this knowledge can influence and inspire contemporary practices in areas such as design, architecture, and art history.