Crayola makes an AIR-DRY CLAY that's so easy to work with, it's perfect for making landform models with kids. The clay typically dries in about 48 hours and then it can be finished with acrylic paints. According to Crayola's directions, the hardened clay can even be carved, although we haven't tried that. Sounds cool though! I've always been a teacher who believes art should be an integral part … [Read more...]
Fun Halloween Math for Kids: Freaky Frankies
So, this probably looks like an art lesson (and it is), but then (like magic) it becomes a fun Halloween math lesson chock full of data practice. The kids love it! And honestly, all the finished Freaky Frankies are adorable. FIRST THINGS FIRST Let's go ahead and get this out of the way. If you're thinking you can't do this lesson because you can't draw, trust me ... you can. Using simple shapes … [Read more...]
Truffula Tree Craft
Over the years, I've seen a decline in the number of arts and crafts activities we plan for our students. Many of us have been conditioned to think they aren't rigorous enough, they aren't standards-based, and there isn't time due to the testing schedule. "There are more important things to do," we're told. To all of that, I respectfully say ... 🙄. Arts and crafts lessons give children the … [Read more...]
St. Patrick’s Day Math Activity
I know this doesn't look like a St. Patrick's Day math activity, but stick with me for a minute... I'll get there. When I was a kid, I loved books that showed me step-by-step how to draw things. I don't think kids have changed much in this way because our students still love our little art tutorials. We make these sweet little leprechauns every year on or near St. Patrick's Day, and we don't … [Read more...]
The Human Body: A Smart Art Science Project
This Smart Art science project has evolved over the years, often with input from my students. We've had fun thinking of arts and crafts supplies we could use to represent different parts of the human body. I think we've been pretty clever, using straws for windpipes, balloons for stomachs, and sponges for lungs. The project requires some prep and does take a little time to build, but it's easy to … [Read more...]