Lesson: Maps
Art Theory: Paint and tape
I fought hard for them to be quiet so I could introduce what we were doing, but the minute I said the word "paint" they transformed into bouncy balls! The kids were so excited! They put on their aprons, rushed to their seats and were begging for the paint to be put on their tables. But there were some instructions first.
During the week the kids had been learning about maps. At each table the students were given a tape roll to use the pieces to represent streets. The kids taped in every direction across their paper. Then we talked about color, they were to use as many colors as they could and that no two colors could touch. Whether they heard that instruction or not, I will never know, they were much too excited.
The paint was passed out and every students was having a blast. Their maps were unique and that was the goal. When they each peeled up the tape they were so impressed that the paper stayed white.
That day I learned that there is a scale of balance. If the materials are complex, and paint for a first grade class is the most complex, then the project must be simple. But when the materials are simple the project can be more complex.
Here is some of their joy:
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