1st Grade  Lesson 90 minutes

"Leafy Gyotaku: Fall Collage Creation!"

Yvonne L
FA.A.1.1B
FA.A.1.2A
FA.A.1.2B
FA.A.1.4A
Self Directed Learning
+ 2 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage first-grade students in an exploration of art through the integration of natural elements and artistic techniques. By combining the Gyotaku printmaking process with observational drawing, students will develop their understanding of textures, shapes, and composition. This hands-on project encourages creativity, self-reflection, and collaboration, fostering a sense of identity and belonging as students share and discuss their artworks with peers and the community.

Learning goals

Students will explore and identify the elements of art and principles of design by creating a fall-themed composition using the Gyotaku printmaking process with leaves. They will develop skills in arranging natural and human-made elements to achieve balance and harmony in their artwork. Through reflection and feedback, students will build self-awareness and engage in critical thinking, enhancing their ability to articulate their creative choices and artistic process.
Standards
  • [Texas] FA.A.1.1B - identify the elements of art, including line, shape, color, texture, and form, and the principles of design, including emphasis, repetition/pattern, and balance, in nature and human-made environments.
  • [Texas] FA.A.1.2A - invent images that combine a variety of lines, shapes, colors, textures, and forms
  • [Texas] FA.A.1.2B - place components in orderly arrangements to create designs
  • [Texas] FA.A.1.4A - explain ideas about personal artworks
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a Gyotaku-style print using leaves and paint, exploring positive and negative space to form a fall-themed composition. They will then enhance their artwork by adding an observational drawing of a pumpkin, integrating both natural and human-made elements. The final product will be a mixed-media collage that showcases their understanding of texture, shape, and balance, ready to be displayed in a 'Fall Art Gallery' exhibition.

Launch

Begin the lesson by reading "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Leaf" to the class, using expressive voices and gestures to capture students' attention and imagination. After the story, engage students in a brief discussion about the different textures and shapes they noticed in the illustrations. Introduce the concept of Gyotaku printmaking by showing examples and explaining how they will use leaves and paint to create their own prints. Encourage students to think about how they can incorporate elements from the story into their artwork, sparking excitement for the hands-on activity ahead.

Exhibition

Create a vibrant 'Fall Art Gallery' in the school hallway, showcasing students' Gyotaku leaf prints and pumpkin collages. Each piece will be accompanied by a short artist statement, where students articulate their creative process and the elements of art they explored. Invite parents, teachers, and community members to visit the gallery, fostering a sense of pride and community appreciation for the students' artistic achievements.