Grade 3: Chinese Dragons

Third grade began this project by looking at ancient Chinese dragon depictions (paintings, prints, clothing etc.). They discussed the difference between western and eastern understandings of dragons and learned about myths.  We then did a guided drawing in our sketchbooks to practice our skills.  Once third graders were satisfied with their drawings, they transferred them onto larger paper.  Using thin and thick sharpies students inked in their details.  Finally, The painting began.  Students mixed colors in a plastic palette to personalize each dragon, we then added hints of sparkle with glitter watercolor.

Grade 4: Botanical Illustrations

I brought in a couple bouquets of flowers for my fourth graders to draw.  After showing them a powerpoint that included samples of botanical illustrations, I walked around and placed a couple flowers on each table.  (students sit in groups of 4)  In their sketchbooks, students began to draw the flowers, focusing on big shapes first then adding details.  Once they had a sketch they were happy with, they were asked to copy the drawing onto watercolor paper.  We also took some pictures as reference for painting.  Two weeks later when they came back, I demonstrated various watercolor techniques, including a wash, dry brush, wet on wet, lifting off and dropping in color.  I also explained to the fourth graders how to create a shadow to make your flower look like it is sitting on the paper.  Students were given watercolor sets, paper towels and plastic palettes to mix colors in.  Here are our end results! (this lesson is courteously of Art with Miss Angela, a fellow teaching artist)