Thick paint

I introduced thick paint (otherwise known as tempera) to the students this week. Our emphasis is on how artists use shape and color in their work. I have also been trying to encourage a higher degree of finish to their art.

"Mrs. Scott you are in soooo much trouble!"

I showed the students how to create a monoprint, using the tables as our printing plate. We used various paint tools to add texture and an eraser to take paint off. I loved when I pulled the paper off and the kids went ooooooh (every single class). I am sure my neighboring teachers were wondering what I was doing. Good thing for me that they like using sponges to clean as much as they like making the mess. Of course we are still emphasizing line in art. We will be moving on to shape next. This is a sixth grade student's color mixing experiment.

Lines show motion

This has been our topic for the week. Check out some of the ways we can show motion!

Not much new

Nothing much to report here. Centers are operating smoothly, the noise level is decent, and I am still sane. My students continue to amaze me with their new ideas and level of rational thinking. I am forcing them to resolve problems on their own. Most of them have all the skills they need to solve problems, but no one ever gave them the confidence that they could do it on their own.
Way to go kids! You all continue to astound me with your creativity.
I opened the stitching mini-center to sixth grade today, but only if they knew how to do it without my help. They did great and helped out others who needed it. This is what choice is all about. I am really enjoying how helpful they are to each other.

Week 3 projects

For these students this was their third visit to the choice classroom. We discussed line and how an artist uses it in their artwork. The fourth graders also studied the process of sketching and how it is a record of ideas that may or may not turn into a full-fledged piece of artwork. One of our fourth grade teachers came a little early and was able to see choice in action. I dare say that she really liked what she saw. The seasonal weave has been a hit with a certain group of young gentlemen (you know who you are!). I think they are determined to get the fall weave done before fall even gets here!