So far this year first grade has:

• Created and used geometric and organic shapes and patterns
  
• Identified types of lines
  
• Explored and created types of lines and textures
  
• Explore the use of overlapping

During this unit, students will further their understanding of line and shape.  They will learn the difference between 2D and 3D shape/line by comparing the lines drawn on their roller coasters and those used in their landscape paintings and collages with the final manipulation of the paper itself.  

First grade students acted as Line Spies.  They paired up with their neighbor on a mission to find as many lines in the art room as possible.

Students then practiced bending and shaping pipe-cleaners in various ways to form different lines.  We played the 'imitation game' with our partners.  In this game, students took turns manipulating pipe-cleaners, then shaping.  Students taught their classmates and asked them for help 

Finally, students were ready to manipulate their paper strips into 3D structures.  More to come! 

Half of the first grade classes have finished and their landscapes are posted on Artsonia. Take a look! They are blowing me away! 

The students working hard while painting their beautiful landscapes!

Some in progress images of the AWESOME artwork. 
I am amazed by these first grade artists.  These are wonderful! 

First Grade focused on the element of line to create a landscape using sharpie and watercolor paints.

At the start of class, I showed  pictures of different landscapes all over the world., which really got them excited!  In each image, we named what we saw: mountains, valleys, roads, streams, snow, desert sand, trees, houses, and more.  

Students practiced their lines by completing the Line Landscapes worksheet  included to the left.  

The worksheet helped to remind students of the different types of line, reinforced horizon line placement by requiring students to trace the one provided in bottom four squares,  and provides practice strategically selecting line to represent land/objects in the environment.  When all five tasks are finished, students turn their paper over to the back side and sketch out a design of their landscape.

We wrapped up the Henri Matisse inspired Cut Paper Collages and they look amazing! 

First Grade learned about the artist Henri Matisse and his geometric and organic collages.  

The students reviewed then applied geometric and organic shapes to create their collages.  The only requirements were to completely cover the white base paper and include a 'living thing' in their collage.