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 Northern Lights Project Description: In this project, we explored the northern lights and how they appear in the sky through a short lesson. After learning about what causes them, we were introduced to six different oil pastel techniques. Using a sheet of black paper, we first drew and cut out a mountain range. We used this cut-out as a stencil on a second black paper to help us mark where the mountains would go so we could focus on coloring the sky above. We used bright oil pastel colors and at least three of the techniques we learned to create the northern lights. Once the sky was finished, we added white snow to the tops of our mountain cut-outs and glued them down over our colorful sky. We could also add stars or a moon to complete our nighttime scene. Extension Activity: As a fun follow-up, students could write a short creative story or postcard pretending they traveled to a place where they saw the northern lights in person. They could describe what they saw, how they felt, ...
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 Clay  Project Description: For this project, we used clay to create 3D flower sculptures. We began by wedging the clay, which means kneading and slamming it to get all the air bubbles out. Once the clay was ready, we rolled it out using rolling pins and wooden sticks to make sure the slab was even. After that, we picked a flower design and either rolled the clay into coils to shape the petals or cut out petal shapes and molded them together. When our flowers were finished, we carefully placed them into bowls to help them dry in a curved, flower-like shape. Extension Activity: As a fun and meaningful extension, students could turn their clay flowers into a  Mother’s Day gift . Once the flowers are dry and fired (or air-dried), students can paint them using acrylic paint in their mom’s or guardian’s favorite colors. To go along with the flower, they could also write a heartfelt note or short poem about why they appreciate their mom or special adult. The flower and message ...
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 Lilly Pad  Project Description: In this art activity, we explored mixed media while creating a fun and colorful lily pad scene. We began by painting a watery background using watercolors and then sprinkled salt onto the wet paint to create a sparkling texture effect. Once it dried, we moved on to building the lily pad and flower using cut construction paper. We used crayons and markers to add extra details and texture. The lily pad and flower were then glued together in layers to create a 3D effect, and we carefully removed the tape around our paper to leave a clean, sharp border that framed our artwork beautifully. Extension Activity: "Frog Hop Math Game": As a fun extension, students could create small origami frogs or use cut-out frog shapes and play a math-based lily pad hopping game. Each student would place their frog on a lily pad and roll dice or spin a spinner to “hop” to a new lily pad that has a math problem or fun fact about frogs. This could help reinforce math ...
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 Paper cutting  Project Description: In this activity, we explored symmetry and repetition through a fun paper-folding project using tissue paper. We began by carefully folding squares of tissue into smaller sections, similar to how you might fold a paper fan or triangle for snowflakes. Then, we cut various shapes along the folded edges. When we unfolded the tissue, we revealed intricate and colorful designs made by the repeating cut patterns. It was exciting to see how each student’s creation turned out completely unique, even though we all used the same folding technique. Extension Activity: Cultural Connection – Papel Picado: As an extension, students could explore the Mexican folk art tradition of  papel picado , which uses similar techniques to create decorative banners for celebrations. Students could research the cultural significance of  papel picado , design their own banners with meaningful symbols or messages, and string them together to decorate the class...
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 Printmaking  Project Description: In this activity, we studied the famous pop artist Andy Warhol and how he rose to fame through his bold use of color and printmaking techniques. We focused on his unique method of repeating images and using vibrant color combinations. Each student began by drawing two flowers on paper, which were then transferred onto a foam square by tracing and pressing firmly. Once the flower designs were on the foam, we used rollers to cover the foam with paint and stamped the image onto our gallery paper. Students worked in pairs and repeated the printmaking process four times, experimenting with color combinations and placement, just like Warhol did in his art. Extension Activity: Color Theory Exploration with Warhol Prints: As an extension, students could explore color theory by creating a series of prints that each emphasize a different color scheme such as warm colors, cool colors, complementary colors, and analogous colors. After creating these them...
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  Stained-Glass Windows Activity Description: In this activity, students had the opportunity to create their own stained-glass windows. We began by learning about a famous artist who was known for his stained-glass windows and unique techniques. After discussing his work, we drew four different examples of our own stained-glass window designs, experimenting with shapes, lines, and patterns. Once we selected a design, we transferred it to a larger piece of paper. To simulate stained glass, we placed a clear piece of material over our final design, taped it down to the table to keep it in place, and traced over the lines with a Sharpie. After completing the outlines, we colored the clear material using at least three different colors. Finally, students could hang their stained-glass creation in a window to see how light passed through, revealing the vibrant effect. Extension Activity: Exploring Light and Color with Science: An extension activity for this stained-glass project could i...
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 Watercolors  Activity Description: In this activity, students learned four different techniques for painting with watercolors. We began by studying a watercolor artist and how they became famous for their unique style. Then, as a class, we were guided through drawing the basic elements of a still life: the walls and floor, and a table with a flower vase on it. Once the drawing was complete, we traced over all of our pencil lines with a black Sharpie. This step ensured that our watercolor paint wouldn’t stray outside of the outlined areas. Finally, students began painting their still life, incorporating at least three of the watercolor techniques they had learned earlier in the lesson. This allowed them to experiment with different techniques while creating their own vibrant interpretation of the still life. Extension Activity: Nature Walk and Seasonal Change: As an extension, we could take a nature walk to explore different leaves, flowers, and their unique colors. During the...
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