Assigned Teachers: Avanthi, Oneli, piyumika, Suren, ranitri

Intro

February 4th is Independence Day in Sri Lanka. What does this mean, and why is our flag connected to it? Let’s learn the symbolism and design ideas behind our national flag, and then learn some principles on how to design a flag. Finally we’ll learn how to make our own flag. It could be for our country, city, school, sports team, family, or group of friends.

You will need:

1. A4 paper

2. Pencil & eraser

3. Ruler

4. Colors

Guide

Step 1: Q&A: what is a flag? What is the connection to Sri Lanka’s national flag and Independence Day many answers welcome, but here’s some suggested discussion points: Because as we gained independence from our colonizers, we used this flag to show our independence as a separate nation. What do the colors and symbols signify? What are the things you like and dislike about our flag?

Step 2: Let’s look at some flag designs. What are the things that a lot of what are the elements that these flags have in common? Do they have bold colors? Do they have geometric patterns? What symbols can you see? Do you know what countries these flags symbolize?

Step 3: Here are five principles to making a good flag design.

The Five Principles are:

1. Keep It Simple.  The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.

2. Use Meaningful Symbolism.  The flag's images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.

3. Use 2 or 3 Basic Colors.  Limit the number of colors on the flag to three which contrast well and come from the standard color set.

4. No Lettering or Seals.  Never use writing of any kind or an organization's seal.

5. Be Distinctive or Be Related.  Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections.

Of course there are exceptions to every rule, but depart from these five principles only with caution and purpose.

Step 4: what do you want to design a flag for? Do you want to design it for your country or for your school? Do you want to make a flag to represent yourself think about who you want to make a flag for and start creating your own flag you can to follow or break these principles mentioned above.