We are surrounded by signs, but do we see them – or otherwise recognize
them? Doing the following activities is a sign that you want to learn how to
read the signs better. That’s a good sign!
CONNECT:
- Several early writing systems were picture- or sign-based. The Chinese still write in complex signs of “characters.” See the origin of their writing system and how it evolved at http://www.ancientscripts.com/chinese.html
- Did you know that the colors and signs of road and traffic signs are created on purpose? Read more into signs at https://www.myparkingsign.com/blog/significance-of-colors-shapes-in-road-traffic-signs/
- Hallmark Cards used that name for a purpose. Learn the history of hallmarking at https://www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk/company/history/hallmarking/.
- Did you know that sign language isn’t universal? Watch this video to see why: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viRVFxvXSss
CREATE:
- A coat of arms is a sign of a family, and what makes them special. Learn about coats of arms, and make your own family coat of arms at http://medievaleurope.mrdonn.org/heraldry.html
- Learn how to read road signs by playing this game: http://www.jrso.com/funzone/roadsigns/roadsignsgame/
- Can you make a story with just emojis? This dictionary can help you: https://emojipedia.org/people/
- Whether weather? It happens whether or not you like it. But wouldn’t it be useful to forecast the weather? Learn the signs of weather at http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-forecasting.htm
CARE:
- Learn how to communicate with someone can’t hear; learn the basics of American Sign Language by following along with these kid-friendly videos: http://www.watchknowlearn.org/Category.aspx?CategoryID=333
- Learn how to read and made trail markings, which can be a nature-friendly to get around: http://howtowilderness.com/trail-signs/
- Danger! Several signs indicate chemical hazards: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/HazComm_QuickCard_Pictogram.html. You can cut out these pictograms like flashcards, and memorize them with your family. Your lives might depend them.
- Have you seen the international peace sign? It was created in the 1950s by a student to promote peace and nuclear disarmament. Its 60th birthday is coming up: April 4. Learn the reason for the design and more at http://www.planetpals.com/IKC/peacesignbirthday.html. And celebrate peace!
CAREER:
Whether signs are from nature or humans, there’s a career in knowing
about and making signs: forest ranger, meteorologist, graphic artist, billboard
manager, interpreter, even chemist (for those neon signs). Sign up for a great
job! Here are some examples:
