How to Make a Protest Sign for a School Project
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees Americans' right to freedom of speech. The same amendment also guarantees the right to assemble peacefully. Throughout American history, citizens have combined those rights and taken to the streets in protest of government or private actions. Protesters frequently use signs to express their opinions because carrying a picket sign is a convenient way to speak your mind without straining your vocal chords. With a little time and a few basic supplies, you can make your own protest sign for a school project.
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Things You'll Need
- White poster board or foam board
- Fat colored markers
- Black permanent marker
- Broomstick or wooden dowel (optional)
- Staple gun or mounting tape (optional)
Instructions
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Identify the issue you are protesting. Follow your teacher's guidelines to make this choice.
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Generate three different slogans related to your issue. Each one should be no more than six words. Ask your friends or family to vote to determine which slogan has the greatest impact.
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Sketch the winning slogan in pencil on a piece of computer paper before you commit to drawing it on your poster board. Identify and resolve possible font size, spacing and margin issues.
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Pencil your design onto your poster board. Make your letters wide and at least 4 inches tall. Use a ruler to keep your lines straight.
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Trace around your letters using a thick, black permanent marker. Black lettering on a white background is easy to see from a distance. Color in the letters with black or a bright, highly visible color, such as red.
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Attach a stick if you prefer or if your teacher's directions require it. Use double-sided mounting tape or a staple gun to attach your sign to a broomstick or wooden dowel. Ensure that at least 14 inches of stick extend below the sign for a handle.
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Tips & Warnings
For extra impact, attach a second sign to the back of the first. That way, people both in front of you and behind you will see your message.
Lightweight poster board may flap or tear in windy conditions.
Use of swear words in your slogan detracts from your message and may lower your grade.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
