The Lost Explorer: Making Cyanotype Print Maps
Simulating the cyanotype printing process using construction paper and the power of the sun!Copyright Miannah Lawrence, September 2024
This interdisciplinary activity combines art, science, literature, cultural competency, and the engineering design process to engage young students in creative exploration. After listening to a read-aloud of Hieroglyphs A–Z, by Peter Der Manuelian, students are challenged to design a unique set of hieroglyphs to help a lost explorer navigate the school in search of treasure and cultural artifacts. Using limited materials, students harness the power of the sun, paper, and natural objects to create cyanotype-style prints that serve as maps and clues. They collaborate to design, test, and revise their prints, sharing feedback and improving their work. Along the way, students gain foundational knowledge in hieroglyphics, cyanotype printing, and map-making, while also developing critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills using the engineering design process.
This project introduces concepts of art, science, storytelling, and engineering to K–1 students through an engaging, hands-on activity. Students explore the engineering design process alongside artistic methods, illustrating how creativity and problem-solving go hand in hand. By incorporating science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and mathematics (STREAM), the activity fosters critical thinking, fine motor skills, communication, collaboration, and innovation. Early exposure to STREAM lays a foundation for future learning by sparking curiosity and developing transferable skills. Young learners begin to see themselves as budding scientists, engineers, artists, and designers, opening doors to future exploration in fields such as materials science, industrial design, and polymer engineering. This early cultivation of STREAM mindsets supports the growth of a curious, capable, and creative next generation.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Define iconography and hieroglyphics.
- Discuss the effects of solar energy in the context of their art prints.
- Explain the process of making cyanotype prints.
- Describe the steps of the engineering design process.