Activity Overview
Coats of arms and family crests were important in medieval society and Arthurian legend. Heraldric shields helped identify knights on the battlefield, and were often symbols of their personality. The pentangle on Ser Gawain's shield, for instance, represented his incorruptibility and power over evil.
While this activity does not adhere to the complicated and strict rules of medieval heraldry, it gives students an opportunity to reflect on their values, and how they would like to express themselves in the world.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Instructions for a Coat of Arms/Family Crest
To make a coat of arm, start with a regular 2x3 storyboard. Find the background (Scenes > Patterns) that have the swoops with which to make a shield shape. You will need to use the flip tool to do one of the sides.
- In the top left panel, select an animal to represents you or your strengths. Be sure to give it a textable label.
- In the top right panel, depict yourself doing something you love. Also label this with a matching textable.
- In one middle cell, show something you aspire to, or an occupation you'd like to have. In the other show an object that is important to you. Label both of these cells, too.
- In the bottom left cell, find a symbol that shows something you love or something that makes you feel good.
- In the bottom right cell, add a text box and write “My Motto:” followed by a phrase that you think represents who you are and how you think people should act.
The first five cells can be related, as in the example, but they don’t have to be. If you have many loves and interests, that is fine.
- Finally, add a scroll from the textables and in bold letters, write out your last name.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Coats of arms and family crests were important in medieval society and Arthurian legend. Heraldric shields helped identify knights on the battlefield, and were often symbols of their personality. The pentangle on Ser Gawain's shield, for instance, represented his incorruptibility and power over evil.
While this activity does not adhere to the complicated and strict rules of medieval heraldry, it gives students an opportunity to reflect on their values, and how they would like to express themselves in the world.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Instructions for a Coat of Arms/Family Crest
To make a coat of arm, start with a regular 2x3 storyboard. Find the background (Scenes > Patterns) that have the swoops with which to make a shield shape. You will need to use the flip tool to do one of the sides.
- In the top left panel, select an animal to represents you or your strengths. Be sure to give it a textable label.
- In the top right panel, depict yourself doing something you love. Also label this with a matching textable.
- In one middle cell, show something you aspire to, or an occupation you'd like to have. In the other show an object that is important to you. Label both of these cells, too.
- In the bottom left cell, find a symbol that shows something you love or something that makes you feel good.
- In the bottom right cell, add a text box and write “My Motto:” followed by a phrase that you think represents who you are and how you think people should act.
The first five cells can be related, as in the example, but they don’t have to be. If you have many loves and interests, that is fine.
- Finally, add a scroll from the textables and in bold letters, write out your last name.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about King Arthur Coat of Arms
Incorporate King Arthur Legends into Your Coat of Arms Lesson
Connect your coat of arms activity to King Arthur’s legendary knights by sharing stories about their unique shields and crests. Briefly discuss symbols like the pentangle of Sir Gawain, and invite students to choose medieval or Arthurian symbols that reflect their own values. This context makes the project more engaging and helps students see the historical significance of their designs.
Guide Students in Researching Medieval Symbols
Encourage students to look up the meanings of common heraldic symbols (e.g., lions for courage, eagles for vision). Provide a short list or printout for easy reference. This step helps students select symbols that truly represent their strengths and aspirations, making their coat of arms more authentic and personal.
Model the Activity with a Teacher Example
Create your own coat of arms alongside your students. Share your choices and explain your reasoning for each symbol and motto. This builds rapport and clarifies expectations, showing students how to thoughtfully connect personal traits with visual elements.
Facilitate a Gallery Walk for Peer Feedback
Display finished coats of arms around the classroom. Have students walk around and leave positive comments or ask questions about their peers’ designs. Encourage respectful feedback and reflection, turning the project into a collaborative learning experience.
Connect the Project to Personal Reflection Writing
After completing their coats of arms, ask students to write a short reflection on why they chose each symbol and what their motto means to them. This deepens self-awareness and helps students articulate the values and dreams represented in their artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions about King Arthur Coat of Arms
What is a coat of arms and why did knights like King Arthur use them?
A coat of arms is a unique design on a shield or crest that identified medieval knights, including those in King Arthur's legends. Knights used them to show their family, values, and to be recognized on the battlefield.
How can I create a simple coat of arms activity for my middle school students?
To create a coat of arms activity, have students design a 2x3 storyboard shield. Each cell represents personal traits, interests, or aspirations, and students label each one, finishing with a family name and personal motto.
What elements should I include in a student-made family crest project?
Include an animal for strength, a favorite activity, an aspiration or dream job, an important object, a symbol of what they love, and a motto. Each part helps students express their identity and values.
Why is reflecting on personal values important when designing a coat of arms?
Reflecting on personal values helps students understand themselves better. Designing a coat of arms allows them to express what matters most and how they wish to be seen by others.
What are some creative ways to help students personalize their coat of arms?
Encourage students to use meaningful symbols, favorite colors, and personal mottos. Let them choose animals or objects that represent their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations for a truly personalized crest.
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