Materials
Egyptian alphabet sheets cardboard markers scissors rectangular shapes with rounded corners pictures of hieroglyphics and Egypt from the library heavy paper or construction paper string hole punch
Instructions
1. Write/draw the Egyptian alphabet on a piece of paper (see illustration). Make a copy for each child in the class.
2. Make patterns of the Egyptian alphabet by drawing each letter (hieroglyphic) on a piece of cardboard and cutting it out. Then make a pattern of an Egyptian cartouche by tracing a rectangular shape with rounded corners on a piece of cardboard and cutting it out.
3. Explore and discuss the Egyptian alphabet or hieroglyphics. Show the children books and pictures of hieroglyphics and Egypt.
4. Tell the children that a cartouche is an oval figure enclosing a sovereign's (leader) name. Explain that they will make their own cartouche by writing their names using hieroglyphics.
5. Ask the children to trace an oval shape on a piece of paper and cut it out.
6. Give each child an Egyptian alphabet sheet. Demonstrate how to find the symbol for each letter of their names. Encourage them to use the patterns to trace the symbols on their oval papers.
7. The children can decorate the outer edge of the cartouche, punch a hole in the top, and place a string through the hole.
8. Encourage them to try to read each other's names. If desired, let them make name and label cards for classroom pets and materials.
