Lesson Plan Title: Proportion – Flattering the Figure

Required Time: 1-2, 45 min. classes OR combine with another lesson for 90 min. class
Class: Fashion Strategies
Teacher: Becky Parkinson
Objectives: Preparation/Supplies Needed:
Students will learn how to consider proportion in the Magazines
overall effect of a fashion garment. White Paper
Students will show what they have learned through a Glue Sticks
portfolio assignment and discussion. Portfolio Supplies
Powerpoint set up
Copies: Rubrics

Time: Activities/Concepts
5 min. Discussion:
“What does the word proportion mean? Have you ever seen someone’s body that looks out of
proportion in any way? Give examples. Why did it appear to be out of proportion?”

15 -20 min. Activity:

Have students create an example of poor proportion using magazine pages. They should cut the
pictures apart to create a new person or object demonstrating poor proportion. Example: A
large head on a small body. (JPEG attached to demonstrate.) Tell students not to do the same
example as you have done. Students should paste the picture they have constructed on a white
piece of paper to share with the class.
Ask several students to share their examples.
“Why are these examples of poor proportion? What in our experience tells us how big a head
should be… or other parts of the body?”
Clothing is similar in proportion and generally follows the proportion of the body.
“Can you think of any examples when proportion is used to change the look of the body?”

10-20 min. Powerpoint:

Follow the powerpoint and explain how proportion works as well as ratios.

15-45 min. Portfolio Assignment:

Outlined in Powerpoint. You can choose to make it a portfolio assignment or have students turn
in work nicely on a white sheet of paper and give extra credit for the portfolio page. (This gives
an opportunity for students to earn credit that they may have lost on previous assignments and
allows you to provide less class time on this subject.)
Give students the time to complete assignment in class or as homework.