Developed by:
COTA ONG
An art-practice–based alphabetisation method that links the improvement of writing skills to aesthetic pleasure; recommended for people with low literacy competences to help them build a positive and enjoyable relationship with writing.
- Group size limits: from 10 to 20 participants
- Time required: 45-60 minutes
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Learn & Gain:
- Improve writing skills, concentration, and the development of fluid and readable handwriting.
- Gain positive personal experiences with writing by creating meaningful souvenirs.
- Strengthen self-expression and creativity through haiku and personal messages.
- Associate language practice with artistic and aesthetic pleasure.
Language skills developed
- Vocabulary kills
- Spelling
- Written expression
other extra-linguistic and communication skills developed
- Creativity
- Self-confidence
- Artistic/Craft skills
Materials and tools needed
- White paper
- Pieces of black or colorful cardboard
- Pencils
- Markers
- Erasers
- A craft punch
- Wooden sticks
- Glue
- Pendant bases
- Pendant wires
- Examples for calligarpy in different languages (in book, or online projected)
Step-by-step
Step 1 – Introduction
- The learners think of a favourite word, activity, place, or person they like.
- Theeducator supports them in writing these down, adapting to different levels of language proficiency.
- The activity is ideal for beginners, but if some participants are more advanced, it can be extended:
- By inviting them to work on proverbs or sayings from their language of origin and transforming them into personal messages or short sentences.
- As an optional challenge, advanced learners can create short haiku poems on a specific subject.
Step 2 – Exploring Calligraphy
- The eductor introduces the concept of calligraphy and “beautiful writing.”
Shows examples of writing used decoratively (jewellery, logos, graffiti, manuscripts, ancient artefacts). - The learners try to read and interpret these examples together.
- The educator selects examples from learners’ heritage cultures, the hosting community, or diverse sources to foster cultural exchange.
Step 3 – Practising Beautiful Writing
- Learners draw small circles on paper and practice writing their chosen words inside them.
- Encourage experimenting with different lettering styles, decorative elements, and creative layouts.
- Add symbols to the written text and try out various compositions.
Step 4 – Creating the Pendants
- Each learner selects their favourite composition.
- Cut out the design and fix it inside a pendant base using appropriate glue.
- Let dry and admire the transformation of words into wearable art.
Step 5 – Sharing Creations
- Learners present their pendants to the group, explaining their choice of word, symbol, and design.
- Optional: organise a small exhibition by laying out pendants together on a table or hanging them on the wall.
Step 6 – Final Recap and Feedback
- Closing circle where participants share their experience of connecting writing with creativity.
- The educator highlights progress in writing skills, creativity, and self-confidence.
End with a collective reflection: “What feeling will you take away from creating your pendant?”
Potential risks and challenges
- Timing is crucial: crafting and drawing may take longer than expected, which could distract participants from the main objective of improving their language skills.
- Some participants, especially youth or adults, might question the usefulness of using craft techniques for language learning.
- Clear explanation of the activity’s goals is essential to maintain motivation.
- Participants with limited fine motor skills or low confidence in drawing may feel frustrated; facilitators should provide support, encouragement, and alternative ways to participate.
- Overly complex instructions or examples could overwhelm beginners; keep guidance simple, step-by-step, and visually supported.
recommendations for educators
- Encourage experimentation: Remind participants that the focus is on language development and personal expression, not on achieving “perfect” craftwork. Creativity and exploration are more important than precision.
- Support language use: Offer vocabulary prompts, spelling support, or sentence starters for participants who struggle with writing, ensuring that the language-learning goal remains central.
- Foster peer interaction: Encourage participants to share ideas, provide positive feedback to each other, and discuss the meaning behind their chosen words, symbols, or haiku poems.
- Be mindful of pacing: Crafting can be time-consuming. Keep an eye on the schedule to ensure there’s sufficient time for both writing practice and pendant creation without overwhelming participants.
- Adapt to skill levels: For beginners, focus on simple words or phrases and basic
- symbols. For more advanced learners, suggest short poems, proverbs, or culturally significant sayings
- Integrate cultural reflection: Invite participants to explain the cultural or personal significance of their symbols, patterns, or text to enrich the learning experience.
- Provide examples: Have a few pre-made pendants or images of calligraphic designs available to inspire participants and clarify the final goal.
- Maintain a positive environment: Emphasize the fun and aesthetic aspects of the activity to reduce anxiety around writing and help build confidence in language use.Gather all necessary materials: thick paper, markers, scissors, glue, compass, and cabochons for pendants. These can be sourced from online suppliers or local art and craft stores.
- Prepare an image gallery showcasing examples of decorative writing or calligraphy from different cultures and languages, including the participants’ native languages if possible.
REsources and References
You can also experiment with more complex jewellery making techniques following our tutorials:
