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...]
Leprechaun Directed Drawing and Math Activity
Yep... it'll be here before we know it! And soon, all we'll be thinking about are rainbows, leprechauns, and pots of gold! This is such a great holiday to celebrate with kids. The legends, the bright colors, the trickery... it's so much fun! 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 my students still … [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...]