Introduction:
The Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It stands upon Corcovado Mountain and towers over the city below, a testament to art, engineering, and faith. As educators, it is essential to inform our students about this awe-inspiring monument and help them understand its cultural and historical significance. In this article, we will explore various ways to teach students about Christ the Redeemer’s height and its impact on visitors and locals alike.
1. Start with the basic facts
Begin your lesson with a brief overview of the Christ the Redeemer statue. Emphasize its height and provide context by comparing it to other well-known structures or objects. For instance:
– The statue itself measures 30 meters (98 feet) tall.
– Including its pedestal, it stands at a total height of 38 meters (125 feet).
– To put this into perspective, this height corresponds to approximately 1/3 of the height of the Statue of Liberty or a 12-story building.
2. Discuss the construction process
Understanding how Christ the Redeemer was built can help students appreciate its impressive stature even more. Touch upon these key points:
– Designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and French-Polish sculptor Paul Landowski.
– Constructed between 1922 and 1931.
– Built using reinforced concrete and soapstone.
3. Use visual aids
To fully grasp how tall Christ the Redeemer is, engage your students with visual aids that provide clear comparisons to other famous landmarks or everyday objects. You can:
– Provide a side-by-side comparison with other landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or The Great Sphinx to illustrate differences in height.
– Create diagrams or scale models representing the relative height of objects like school buses or basketball hoops stacked on top of each other.
4. Encourage critical thinking
Open discussions and facilitate debates about the reasons behind the statue’s immense height. Encourage students to consider factors such as:
– The symbolic significance of the height in relation to faith.
– The benefits of constructing a landmark with such an imposing presence.
– The engineering challenges and advantages of creating a large structure.
5. Explore the impact on local and global communities
Finally, explain the significance of Christ the Redeemer in both local and international cultures, including its role as a symbol of hope, pride, and unity. Discuss how the statue’s impressive height contributes to its international appeal and serves as a source of inspiration for millions of people.
In conclusion, teaching students about the remarkable height of Christ the Redeemer is an excellent starting point for learning about Brazil’s rich culture, history, and artistic prowess. By incorporating creative visuals, fostering critical thinking, and discussing Christ the Redeemer’s role within past and present societies, educators can effectively engage their students in meaningful conversations surrounding this iconic monument.
