Connecticut Capitol, Hartford. Photo: Carol M. Highsmith. Library of Congress

What kind of entrance does the State Capitol have?

An entryway is an invitation into a building. It gives visitors clues about what the building is used for. It helps them find where they need to go. If a building is for public use, the entrance is usually easy to spot. Think about entrances to hotels, train stations, and restaurants. What do they look like?

What about your classroom’s entrance? Is it easy to find? Is it welcoming?

Materials You’ll Need:

• mural paper

• cardboard

• construction paper

• pencils, markers, optional: paints & paintbrushes

• Scissors

• Glue

• Tape

Make an Entrance!

1.  Look at the entrance to your classroom. Make notes about the following:

   1. Is the entrance easy to find?

   2. Does it invite you to come in?

   3. Do you think someone knows right away they’re in a school?

   4. How would you change or make the entrance better? Think about colors. Think about signs you see or don’t see. What kind of decorations are around the entrance?

2. Look at the images of the State Capitol. How did the architect make sure visitors know it’s an important place? How do you know where the entrance is? Make a list of architectural details that you see.

3. Make a drawing on an 8 1/2 x 11 piece of paper. Draw how you’d like your classroom door to look so that visitors know it’s an important place.

4. Split up into small groups. In small groups, share your ideas with your classmates. Agree on a new design using at least one idea from each student.

5. On your group’s piece of mural paper, work together to draw the basic shape of the entrance, including, of course, the door. If possible, make it life size. But don’t worry if you don’t have space for that. Architects always make plans smaller than life size.

6. Each student will then add their design idea from the plan you agreed on. Everyone can help color it in.

7. Post it up on the classroom wall or in the hallway. Invite your principal to come see your designs.

This activity is adapted from Robert Gregson, “A Grand Entrance.” Used by permission