Illuminated Beastiary

An illuminated beastiary is an illustrated book, popular in the medieval period, with descriptions of real and imaginary animals.  The medieval period was between 1066-1485. Most people during this time did not read, so the illuminated beastiaries were a way of transmitting information and moral lessons. 

Sixth grade students created their own beasts by combining two or more animals or creatures.  Next they drew a border around their beast that included some type of design such as geometric or organic shapes.  Finally they added color with glossy tempera paint.