Sunday, February 9, 2014

"Scientific Eye"- Polar Animals

This week students began researching the animals from the Arctic and the Antarctic.  As part of the students research, we learned what it means to use a "scientific eye."  On Monday, students drew the the polar animal they are studying during art class.  We brought the illustrations back to the classroom to take a better look at our animals.  

We started by looking at the shape of the animals bodies.  Each student was paired with another child that is studying the same animal.  Each student talked about the different spaces and proportions of body parts that they noticed.  They were instructed not to look at color or patterns at this point.  
 Students then learned what it means to give each other feedback.  Each student took 3 minutes to tell their partner what they liked about their illustration and how they could make their illustration better.  Students were very specific and actually gave their peer/partner excellent feedback.  Students were instructed to give their partner at least two things they could add/change to make their illustration more accurate.  
Anthony was telling Corey that he could try drawing his narwhal longer. 
Ja'Lynee pointing out that the leopard seals back flippers are pointy. 


 After each students gave their feedback students began their next draft. 
 

 
 Each students drew 3 different drafts and a final copy.  On their last draft, students drew the animals body shape.  Then with their partners, students looked at the color, shade, and pattern of their animals.  As you can see below, students made significant progress using peer feedback and a "scientific eye." 
Leopard Seal
Narwhal
Macaroni Penguin
Lynx
With these final drafts, we will create clay models of our animals in art.  I look forward to seeing how students use their knowledge of a scientific eye when creating their clay animals.  

We have a lot of exciting events coming up including:
friendship party, 100th day of school, and polar animal open house!  

Have a great week!
Mrs. Julie Atkin

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