Linear Landscapes: 3rd Grade

I made this lesson during my student teaching. Basically, 3rd graders create a landscape using lines only! It sounds simple, but a lot of them have a hard time grasping this concept. I tried to assist by creating an example.

I started the lesson by talking about this piece by Emil Harmin. We talked about the types of lines that are found in the picture. I also asked students about the texture the line-types create i.e. bumpy, flowy, windy, etc.

I showed this photograph:

And this was the "teacher's example" I created to demonstrated how to create a landscape using lines only.

Previously, I did a watercolor wash on top of the landscapes; I decided not to this round, maybe next time.

Students used this landscape photograph to draw from. I told the students they did not have to do the reflection in the water, but they were allowed to if they wanted!

This lesson is a great way to get students thinking about the element of line!

Here are some student examples! I apologize for the quality/shadows on each photograph. I take these photos with my iPhone, it's hard to capture the beautiful art completely!

First Year Teacher

I've decided that I want to upload my lessons (and reflections) online. Two more classes and I will have finished my first week as an official elementary art teacher. At the age of 22, it seems amazing to me that I have accomplished so much in my life already. I've succeeded in obtaining my career goal! I'm a real art teacher! It's so exciting that I haven't even fully realized the truth of it yet.

This week I started out a bit terrified and lost. Now that I'm at the end of the week, I know all is well. I am well trained. I know what I am doing. I have lessons planned for next week, and more in mind for future weeks. I've found online resources. I have goals. I have lists. So many lists.

Each week, hopefully, I will be posting what I did with my classes. It is also my hope that the posts will be complete with pictures and reflections on what went well, what did not, and what I may change for next time. Being half-time at two schools, I'm sure I will have many different experiences to share.

Right now I do not know if posts will be multiple times a week, every day, or just whenever a project has finished.

Here's to the future! Cheers!