Cacti
Lesson by Sandi Arthur
Teacher Notes
Project Description:
The inspiration for this project are those awesome wonders of nature called cacti - and we’ll include some other succulents too while we’re at it! While working on this project many art terms or tips can be incorporated, like "drawing what you see", balance, rule of odd numbers, and rule of thirds. Students can follow step-by-step, or vary it by picking their own cacti/succulent types to draw. Handouts are available for ideas.
K-1 students create three pots, and then plant a cactus or succulent in each one.
2-12 students create one pot with overlapping cacti or succulents.
Supply Notes:
* Project supplies are flexible. School chairs will determine what supplies they plan to use.
* If the project is to be done at home, it can be done with basic supplies (paper, pencil, something to color with).
Links to the Lesson for Students:
K-1
https://www.southbayhandsonart.com/cacti-k-1
OR
https://youtu.be/_H0URq5JdAo (bypass web page and go straight to video)
Suggested Supplies:
Basic Supplies: paper, pencil, eraser, black writing tool, something to color with, handouts*
(*optional but very helpful)
Upgraded Supplies: like basic supplies, but use special art paper, Ultra Fine Sharpie, and special colors options (like watercolor pans or pencils, or water soluble oil pastels)
Additional Teacher Resources
Slides Lesson (similar to the main project videos but in slide form)
Video Lesson K-1 on Google Drive (if you want to download and use it outside of YouTube)
Video Lesson 2-12 on Google Drive (if you want to download and use it outside of YouTube)
Lesson Plan (more information for docents and/or teachers)
*Tips*
Watercolor Teaching Tips - Document
Watercolor Teaching Tips - Video (geared toward younger students)
5 Watercolor Mistakes and How to Fix Them (better for older students - non HOA video)
*Handouts*
Handout 2 - Cacti Reference Sheets (color, 2 pgs, can be printed front/back)
Handout 3 - Practice Drawing Sheet (print in B/W. If it is too light with your printer/copier, print the identical page from Handout 2 in B/W instead)
Special thanks to:
Sandi Arthur for sharing her project!