This leaf bug art exercise is a great example of using fall to provide a exciting way to manipulate leaves and the change of colours. The idea is very simplistic, yet creates a final product that screams creativity that young students would really enjoy. Upon presenting a lesson on the way that colours change in the fall, the teacher could present an exemplar and get the students excited to go and find their own leaves to make their own bugs. The activity could involve students going outside for a quick walk to find a leaf of their own, assuming there are leaves around to pick up.
Considering that Christmas is quickly approaching, it provides a great opportunity for the students to create art work that celebrates Christmas, or winter for that matter for those who do not celebrate Christmas. These stars could be produced to hang on the Christmas tree or to simply represent the stars in the sky. Creating meaning is what a teacher does to provide learning opportunities for students that spark interest. Interest and engagement are at the top of the list in terms of successful instruction and utilizing seasons will always be a great basis from which to develop art lessons.
Two worthwhile activities to add to your personal repertoire. The bugs are delightful and the stars are something that most students could complete successfully without too much help. Kids always enjoy glitter or sequins, although using them without mess and waste is a bit of a challenge. I think the rhythm of the seasons is an important theme, especially in primary teaching. And it can occur in intermediate grades as well but in a more sophisticated way. I like your point about making meaning...it is an important phrase, as evidenced in the title of our text, but not so easy to grasp as a consistent practice. I hope this blog has given your class opportunities to make meaning of your own arts experiences...or to seek them out if you haven't had many.
ReplyDelete