Fun idea for Ancient Egypt lesson

For some reason, Ancient Egypt is one of my students favorite topics, even before we even start talking about it. We have a lot of fun during this unit. One of the highlights of the unit is when we make the pharaoh masks.

These take a little preparation (i.e. parent help, gathering supplies, and ample time) First, plan on enlisting the help of 5-8 parents. The more the better. You will need to go to your local medical supply store and purchase 10-15 rolls of casting material and 6 tubes of Vaseline. You will also need to collect 30 flat pieces of cardboard (2'x2', 1 per student). The last thing you will need are 5-8 cans of golden spray paint and some black permanent markers.

On the day of the project, assign a couple of parents to cut the casting material into 6 inch strips. Assign a couple to the job of applying Vaseline to the face of the students. Assign the remaining parents to the application of the material to the face.

To apply the material, soak it in warm water and apply it to the Vaseline layered face. Cover the face from top of forehead to just under the chin and from ear to ear. Cover the eyes and mouth, leave only the nostrils open. If you don't put the Vaseline everywhere, it will pull hair and skin. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes or until it is hard enough to pull off. Detach by pulling from chin area.

While allowing the mask to completely harden, make the pharaohs headdress with the cardboard. Cut out a whole for the mask and attach the mask to the cardboard using the casting material. Apply the material on the front and back of the mask making sure the mask is secured to the cardboard. Spray paint gold and do the final details with the black marker.

Have fun!