Express yourself
Year 6 are currently working on their PYP Transdisciplinary Theme, How We Express Ourselves, with the idea that ‘Fashion is a tool used to express yourself, beliefs and cultures’.
To spark some thought on the concept, the students undertook a provocation task which involved both design and creativity. They were asked to create a piece of fashion using only newspaper and masking tape. No other guidelines were given, other than there would be a presentation to the yeargroup with one of the group acting as the model, along with a short description as they are paraded.
As the excitement grew and the ripping and sticking started, their creations developed into a variety of styles, shapes and sizes. It was fascinating to hear the conversations around what looked good, but also what was practical. Some groups even decided to build in a message to their design, such as the ‘Linked’ creation which highlighted the connection between the news and people and fashion.
Once the original designs had been presented, it was time to delve into the purpose of the task, and Year 6 was asked to consider:
• What did you notice about the creations?
• What was similar about the designs?
• Was there anything that stood out? Why do you think this is?
• What do you think could have influenced the designs?
• Do you think these designs reflect ourselves, our beliefs or our culture?
This generated some rich discussion. What was interesting was that, because the word ‘fashion’ was used for the task, along with the runway-style presentation, the girls may have been guided towards a high fashion style design, rather than just a practical piece of clothing. This allowed us to challenge the view of what fashion actually is, and how we are influenced by many factors when considering our appearance choices.
For a deeper look into the idea, some students explored the unusual use of other materials for fashion design, such as garbage bags or plastic bottles.
It was then time to have a re-think and modify the creation to consider the following aspects for the design:
• Consider the clear purpose of your piece and who might wear it.
• What do you think influenced your group’s design?
• If your design was manufactured, what materials might it be made from? And what would the likely cost be?
“We thought the activity was a fun and a different way to learn, not something you would usually do at school.” Emma and Grace
“Doing this allowed us to express who we are.” Ivy and Cassie
With such an introduction to the unit, the students are now poised to further investigate fashion through a traditional, cultural, religious and historical lens, carefully considering the significance of influence, choice and even world events; all while considering appearance as an expression of yourself.