Sub Lesson: Tracing Shapes and Drawing Patterns

This is my number one sub lesson that I can leave in the "sub tub" for my emergency lesson or for my "I'm feeling lazy lesson". 

The directions are simple: Pick an object from the bucket and trace it at least 5 times on your paper. 

 (I have some simple plastic shapes: circles, triangles, squares... and I also have a bucket of more complex shapes like cookie cutters, cd's, and other random objects for the older kids.)

Once the student traces their object, they draw different patterns and designs in each shape with a pencil. Once they have filled the shapes, they color with crayons. 

Then, they design the background...or incorporate it into the design early on. 

This usually lasts the whole 60 minute class period, but I always leave some "extra time" activities just in case. 

Falling into Places! ( with 3rd Grade )

Well this was one of those projects that would probably be better with an older group. There were a lot of steps...but I guess if you're willing to let it go and see what happens, this is a good project. Lots of trial and error!

First, we traced our hands and feet.  Then we drew a smaller oval for our heads...talked about correct proportion and self-portraits.

Then we discussed foreshortening briefly, and drew our arms and legs.

Finally, we painted using tempera paint....and added details with oil pastels. We cut out our drawings and placed them onto a stronger piece of paper with an 'atmosphere' that we were 'falling into'.