Peacocks

We read Three Hens and a Peacock, by Lester L. Laminack, focusing on the big idea in the story.  After predicting what the story would be about, we dove in and read the first 'chunk'.  I stopped the students and had them sketch an important image and ask a question about what were they wondering?  We shared and then continued on, stopping one more time to sketch and question.  At the end of the books we discussed the big idea and why it was important.

We also read Steve Jenkins (love him) book, Bees, Snails and Peacock Tails, about animals and patterns.  Then we were ready to make oil pastel peacocks!

Students focused on drawing a pear shaped body in blue before colouring in it and adding legs, an eye and beak.  Then, long feather lines were drawn using the clock as a reference (for example, 12 o'clock, 3 o'clock).  Lots of additional feathery lines were added, before the brightly coloured eyes were added at the end.  Colourful feathers were hot glued onto the head as a finishing touch.  Didn't they turn out great!

The Best Part of Me

Such a beautiful project.  I am so proud of the students writing, so heartfelt and authentic.  The Best Part of Me, by Wendy Eswald, inspired this project.  The award winning photographer asked children "what's the best part of you?" and compiled their answers in this book alongside stunning black and white photography.  After reading the excerpts in the book, the students were ready to answer the same question.  They wrote drafts, before peer editing, and starting on their good copies.  They even helped photograph one another using an ipad.  It was a great experience for them, celebrating and sharing something personal and loveable about themselves.

Most of you had the opportunity to see the display during student led conferences in March, but here's another peek.  Each student will be taking home a class book as a keepsake.

Arts Umbrella - Bugs

Before Spring Break we had a wonderful session with Arts Umbrella!  The workshop was full of exploration, discovery, creativity and art.

The kids wrote about the artistic process afterwards, and I think their retelling of the events sums up the session best.  Below you'll find student writing coupled with photographs of their projects.  Click on the photos to see them on a larger scale!  The artwork is hanging in the hallway (look up) where the kids enter in the mornings.  Pop inside to have a closer look.  They are stunning!

Making Bugs:

Hot dog fold

Draw half of your bug

Fold and rub

Open and viola...trace over lines