Africa Studies: Masai Necklaces

As we have been learning about the continent of Africa, many of the students have remarked at the beautiful beaded necklaces of the Masai people of East Africa.  We read about them and have seen pictures in a couple of different books (see below).  I thought the children would really enjoy making their own Masai necklaces.  We talked a lot about patterns with color and shape:

A paper plate Masai necklace along with a picture from our book about Africa.

Here is the activity on the shelf with another book which highlights the Masai people and their beaded jewelry.

A closer look at the illustration…  Just beautiful!