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Chinese Kites

Chinese Kites

Kites were invented in China and are flown during many celebrations. Learn about their rich history and create an original kite.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

Gather all the supplies needed to bring your craft ideas to life! From paints and markers to glue and scissors, our crafts section has everything to spark creativity and make every project truly special.

  • Ribbon
  • Stapler and Staples

Steps

  • Step 1

    Kites were invented in China about 2,300 years ago. At first they were used for military purposes, but they now are flown to represent Chinese culture during festivals - or just for fun. It is also believed that they ward off bad luck. Introduce students to some of the celebrations where you might see kites flown, such as Chinese New Year celebrations, the Qingming Festival during which people show respect to their ancestors, and the Weifang International Kite Festival. Display images of some typical Chinese kites made of wood, silk, or paper.

  • Step 2

    Have students design and create their own kite. They can cut a shape out of paper. This can be decorated with images associated with China, such as zodiac symbols or Chinese characters. They can draw directly on the kite or on separate paper, then cut out and glue or staple to the kite. They can finish the kite by adding strips of ribbon.

  • Step 3

    Display the kites and talk about the feelings that kite-flying might evoke. If students fly their kites outdoors be sure they do so far away from electric lines.

Standards

SS: Culture: Create, learn, share, and adapt to culture.

SS: Culture: Through experience, observation, and reflection, identify elements of culture as well as similarities and differences among cultural

Adaptations

Read a book to the class about Chinese kite flying, such as "The Colorful Kite: A Bilingual Storybook about Embracing Change" by Danqi Liu and Li Liu.

Ask students to find out what zodiac sign they were born under and have them create a piece of artwork that depicts the symbol. You can help them look it up online if needed.