Symmetryical Butterflies

I love butterfly projects!  I have one for just about every grade level.  Now that I'm teaching begindergarten, I needed new approach.  After talking to Mrs. Chernick about her plans to teach symmetry in math class, I knew just what to do!

I photocopied large butterflies onto 80 lb. paper and prefolded them so that the fold is right in the middle along the butterfly's body.  

Then I showed students how to make dots of color with the swabs - don't wipe the color, dab it.  Then after filling a small section, students folded the butterfly to transfer the color to the other wing to make it SYMMETRICAL!  Students had so much fun and were so proud of their beautiful work.

This little guy is so proud!  He happens to be my son, Ty! He loves coming to his mom's classroom for art now!

Leroy Neiman Lions

I started a new chapter in my art room this past January.  I have the privilege of teaching begindergarten art class at Soo Hill and Webster!  I did have some trepidation while preparing lessons: How independent can they be?  What can they draw on their own?  How will I know if I'm giving too many directions?  What will thier attention span be like?  Now that I've been working with them for a couple of months, I am feeling more comfortable and confident with my choices of lessons.  This one is a keeper!  

This is a one-day drawing project that uses only oil pastels.  I showed students some of Leroy Neiman's art - he specializes in athletes and animals, and usually uses lots of bright colors.  Then I led students through a step-by-step drawing of a lion's face.  We talked about lines as we drew the mane.  They were very proud of their drawings!

The original lesson came from this blog.