Second Grade: Camouflage

After working with color, line and pattern the previous two weeks we started our final project which combined all three elements. The second graders has been studying camouflage and this project ties into what they have been learning in the classroom.  Each student  started with a pre-printed lizard or chameleon.  They chose three watercolor pencils: one cool color and two warm colors OR one warm color and two cool colors.  They could use only these colors for the entire project.  The first step of the project was to pattern their lizard.  Then they would create a camouflaged background for it to "live" on.

After they finished patterning their lizards they cut them out and started designing the background.  They were instructed to use the same colors and make patterns compatible but not necessarily exactly like the lizard.

After they finished coloring the background they could use water to blend the watercolor pencil.  They could also use a sharpie if they wanted to define the outline.  (The lizards can be glued directly to the background or you can use foam tape to give give your lizard some relief).
 

Camouflaged Lizards and Chameleons

Kasberg K-2: Pattern

Before starting their final projects each class has a project to practice patterning.

Kindergarten: Practicing patterns using line and shape

 First Grade: Adire Wax Resist Patterns

Second Grade:  Line Practice - Straight, Curved, Thick, Thin

Kaseberg Art Residency: Exploring Color and Line

Kindergarten/First Grade
When I begin teaching at a new school I like to start with the Elements of Art to get a foundation established before working on a final project.  With the primary grades my focus is Color, Line and Shape and Pattern.  I usually begin with a lesson on color where the students mix the secondary colors from the primary colors and then create their own color wheels. 

After learning about Color we explored the element "Line".  In the kindergarten and first grade classes we discussed vertical, horizontal and diagonal and then the students explored patterning using colored popsicle sticks.  They were encouraged to work together to create an abstract line "collaboration".  The kindergarteners often have a hard time with the concept of working as a team.  It takes a little prodding sometimes but we eventually end up with the table or carpet covered with a giant abstract design.  When the time is up we take a moment to observe and talk about their work.

Kindergarten Abstract Line Collaborations

Kindergarten collaboration

First Grade Abstract Line Collaborations

After they've had practice making patterns with colored sticks each student made their own abstract line collage using paper "lines".  The kindergarteners used colored lines on black and the first graders had grey backgrounds with colored lines.  They could also add black lines for accents.

Kindergarten Abstract Line Collages

First Grade Abstract Line Collages