What is a mortar board?
Submitted by Andy_B on Friday, 24 February 2023 Page Views: 795
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A mortar board is a type of academic cap worn by graduates during graduation ceremonies in many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The cap consists of a flat square board with a small, vertical projection at the center, often made of cardboard covered in black cloth, with a tassel attached to the top. The origins of the mortar board can be traced back to medieval universities in Europe, where students and professors would wear different types of hats to signify their rank and status. The mortar board specifically is believed to have originated as a type of soft hat worn by Catholic clergy during religious ceremonies. Over time, it became associated with academic dress and began to be worn by students and professors at universities.
The name "mortar board" comes from the resemblance of the cap to a tool used by masons to hold mortar, which is a type of building material. The tassel attached to the top of the mortar board is typically worn on the right side before graduation, and then moved to the left side during the ceremony to signify that the individual has received their degree.
In addition to its traditional use during graduation ceremonies, the mortar board is also sometimes worn by professors during academic ceremonies and formal events. The design and style of the mortar board can vary depending on the institution, with some universities using different colors or materials to distinguish between different faculties or levels of education. Overall, the mortar board remains an important symbol of academic achievement and tradition in many parts of the world.
What colour is a mortar board usually?
The mortar board is usually black in color. The cap is typically made of a flat square board covered in black cloth, often made of cardboard, with a small, vertical projection at the center. The tassel attached to the top of the cap is also typically black, although it may be a different color depending on the academic institution or the degree being conferred.
While the basic design and color of the mortar board is generally consistent across universities and countries, there may be some variations in the style or color of the tassel, depending on the degree or field of study. For example, in some universities in the United States, the tassel color may vary depending on the school or the major, with gold or white tassels sometimes worn to signify academic achievement or honors.
Overall, however, the black mortar board is the most commonly recognized and traditional style of academic cap worn during graduation ceremonies and other formal academic events.
How do you measure your head for a mortar board?
To measure your head for a mortar board, you will need a soft measuring tape. Follow these steps to accurately measure your head:- Place the measuring tape around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears.
- Make sure that the tape is level and snug, but not too tight, as you want to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Consult the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer or retailer of the mortar board you are interested in purchasing to determine which size corresponds with your head measurement.
Where can I buy a mortar board?
You can typically buy a mortar board online from various retailers that specialize in academic regalia or graduation products. Some popular options include websites such as Ashington-Gowns.com which offer a range of mortar boards and other graduation accessories. You can also find mortar boards on general retail websites like Amazon or Walmart, or on the websites of university bookstores or campus stores.Additionally, some brick-and-mortar stores that sell graduation products may carry mortar boards in-store during graduation season.
