On your marks, get set, CRAFT! Design your own sneaker for the Olympic track — add style with your favorite craft materials like fuzzy sticks and glitter. Download the sneaker printable below to get started!
Create your own Olympic sneaker! Download the printable by clicking the ‘DOWNLOAD TEMPLATE’ button above.
Step 1.
Create your own Olympic sneaker! Download the printable by clicking the ‘DOWNLOAD TEMPLATE’ button above.
Step 2.
Use a hole punch or the tip of a pencil to create holes for the shoelaces. Then, thread any color fuzzy stick through the holes.
Step 2.
Use a hole punch or the tip of a pencil to create holes for the shoelaces. Then, thread any color fuzzy stick through the holes.
Step 3.
Color in your Olympic-style sneakers with crayons, colored pencils, or markers. And embellish with glitter or gemstones to give a final flair.
Step 3.
Color in your Olympic-style sneakers with crayons, colored pencils, or markers. And embellish with glitter or gemstones to give a final flair.
Teacher's Corner
Walk in the footsteps of three groundbreaking Black Olympians by crafting your own running shoes.
Lesson Objectives
First of Many: John Baxter Taylor Jr. was the first African American to win an Olympic gold medal in 1908! He used his outstanding speed and 8.5 foot strides to run the third leg of the 400-meter relay race. How do your students think his achievement inspired other Black athletes?
Jumping to New Heights: Forty years after Baxter Taylor’s win, high jumper Alice Coachman reached a record-breaking 5 feet and 6.1-inch mark — making her the first Black female Olympian to win a gold medal! Coachman’s determination changed the world’s view of Black female athletes and inspired younger generations to aim higher.
Follow-up Discussion
The 1936 Berlin Games marked a historical turning point for African American athletes; especially Jesse Owens, who became a record-breaking track star and took home four gold medals! Explore how Owens’ achievements made an impact on the world in the past and present. Who inspires your students to reach their goals?
