Lesson Plan: Cultural and Creative Arts – Batik
Grade Level: Junior Secondary 3
Subject: Cultural and Creative Arts
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Topic: Batik
Objectives:
- Understand the historical and cultural significance of Batik.
- Learn about the materials and techniques used in Batik-making.
- Create a simple Batik design using basic tools and techniques.
- Appreciate and respect cultural diversity through arts and crafts.
Materials Needed:
- Plain white cotton fabric (small squares for each student)
- Wax (can use candle wax or beeswax)
- Tjanting tools or chopsticks for wax application
- Brushes
- Fabric dyes (various colors)
- Water containers
- Newspapers or plastic sheets (for covering tables)
- Gloves and aprons
- Pencils and paper for preliminary sketches
- Iron and ironing board (for teacher’s use at the end of the lesson)
- History and examples of Batik art (printed or digital presentation)
- Safety instructions sheet
Lesson Structure:
Introduction (15 minutes)
1. Greeting and Attendance
2. Introduction to the Lesson
- What is Batik?
- Brief history and significance in different cultures (e.g., Indonesia, Malaysia, West Africa).
- Display examples of Batik art and discuss the patterns and colors.
3. Objectives of the lesson
4. Safety instructions and proper handling of materials (especially hot wax and dyes).
Instruction (25 minutes)
1. Materials and Tools
- Show the students the different materials (wax, dyes, tjanting tools).
- Discuss the purpose of each material and tool.
2. Techniques
- Demonstrate the wax-resist method.
- Explain the process: sketching the design, applying wax, dyeing the fabric, and removing the wax.
- Show examples of different styles of Batik designs.
3. Creating Preliminary Sketches
- Ask students to create a simple design on paper that they can transfer to their fabric.
- Provide guidance on choosing patterns and colors.
Activity (40 minutes)
1. Wax Application
- Cover tables with newspapers or plastic sheets.
- Distribute fabric pieces and tjanting tools or chopsticks.
- Students transfer their designs onto the fabric using pencils lightly.
- Supervise students as they apply wax to their fabric designs.
2. Dyeing the Fabric
- Demonstrate the dyeing process.
- Assist students as they dye their waxed fabric in different colors.
- Ensure that students wear gloves and aprons to avoid stains.
3. Setting the Dye
- Allow the fabric to soak in the dye for the required time.
- Rinse the fabric under cold water to remove excess dye.
Conclusion (10 minutes)
1. Removing Wax
- Explain how to remove the wax (teacher uses an iron and newspaper to show).
- Allow students to observe the final result where wax is removed.
2. Discussion
- Reflect on the patterns and colors used.
- Discuss the experience and what they have learned about Batik.
- Display the students' work if possible.
3. Clean-up
- Ensure all materials are properly cleaned and stored.
Homework/Extension Activity
- Ask students to research and bring a short write-up about the cultural significance of Batik in any country of their choice.
- Students may draw another Batik design in their sketchbooks to practice further.
Assessment:
- Participation during the lesson.
- Creativity and effort in the creation of Batik designs.
- Understanding of the cultural significance of Batik through class discussions and homework.
Notes for Teacher:
- Ensure safety especially around hot wax and dyes.
- Provide additional support to students who may struggle with techniques.
- Encourage a respectful and open-minded discussion about cultural arts.