African Mask Art Game
Ready to teach an African art activity that’ll keep elementary art kids engaged? This African mask art project will boost confidence and creativity. Kids will appreciate understanding the reason why people make and wear masks. Moreover, they’ll enjoy making their own mask design with exciting patterns!
And, it’ll help time-starved teachers like you create art lesson plans based on African art.
During this art project, your class will discuss ceremonies, rituals, and traditions surrounding mask making. Use it to discuss why some masks resemble people and others animals as well as the various materials used to create them. Kids will create an African mask design with watercolor paints using the step-by-step guide and PowerPoint.
Plan lessons about art history and art appreciation in a way that excites them. Finally feel confident in your art curriculum and be organized and prepared to teach art!
What’s Included In My African Mask Project
Can I be honest with you? Art history can sometimes be boring for kids. There, I said it. Teaching about artists and cultures doesn’t have to be a snoozer, though!
I’ve designed 3 different ways for students to attempt this African art lesson. All will engage kids to create! Choose which way works best for your classes:
- Roll a dice game to add randomness to your student’s artwork
- “You Pick” idea worksheet for kids to choose their own elements
- Digital spinner wheels, so kids can randomly pick elements and you can integrate technology in the art room
- Printable dice template in case you have no dice
- Step-by-step picture directions to guide students through the art process
- Drawing practice worksheet, for kids who want to sketch out their ideas
- African Mask Making Traditions worksheet about the reason behind masks as well as various patterns used to design them
- 6 Printable mask templates, to make designing your mask easier
- “Big Ideas” reflection worksheet where students write about their art process
- Self-assessment worksheet so kids can think about how they performed during the project
- Art grading rubric which assesses expectations, craftsmanship, work habits, creativity, and clean-up
- 8 “I CAN” Statements aligned to the Studio Habits of Mind to use during instruction or post on your bulletin board
- 4 Art exit tickets with quick, thought-provoking prompts
- Art history coloring pages to keep kids inspired by masks outside of the art room
Ways to Use This African Mask Art Project for Black History Month
This mask making lesson plan is flexible and can be used in many ways throughout your art room and beyond. It’s great for maternity or emergency art sub plans, early finisher activities, and even for virtual art class or an after-school art club.
You Will Receive
- 1 Non-Editable Printable PDF (African Mask Art Project)
- 1 Non-Editable PowerPoint
- 5 Digital Spinner Videos (downloadable, and links to them on Google Slides and YouTube)
- Paperless Google Drive Digital Resource
Why You’ll Love It
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I left this activity for a sub. students loved it and their work was beautiful.
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My students love these resources! We used this resource as part of our Black History month unit. Easy to use and student friendly.
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I’m extremely pleased with this package. I was looking for handouts that had examples of African masks. This made it tons of fun for my students by allowing them to pick the shape of the head, nose, eyes, head dress, etc. It has been a huge hit and the projects look amazing. It was worth it to make my planning and prep work easier. Thanks.
Terms of Use
Please refer to my complete terms of use prior to purchasing.









My students loved making their own masks. This resource was very straight forward and easy to use!
The *Black History Month African Mask Making Art Project* is an excellent and engaging resource for introducing young students to African culture through art. The templates and worksheets are thoughtfully designed, making it easy for teachers to guide students while still allowing room for creativity and individuality. The activity is well-structured and accessible, even for younger learners, which helps build confidence as they explore new artistic concepts. This project goes beyond just crafting by encouraging meaningful discussions about cultural traditions and the significance of African masks. Students not only enjoy the hands-on aspect but also gain a deeper appreciation for diversity and history. Overall, itÕs a well-rounded and impactful resource that combines creativity, education, and cultural awareness in a way that is both fun and meaningful for the classroom.
Did this activity with 3rd through 5th and they enjoyed
My students love creating their own masks and this resource was perfect. It has a fun game and it walks them through the process step by step.
My students and I found this resource to be fun and engaging! I will be using it for years to come and am very happy with this purchase!