Twisted Trees

LEARNING TARGETS:
-Students will understand the difference between two-dimensional and three-dimensional works of art.
-Discuss the differences between spring, summer, fall, and winter trees.

TERMS:
-Three Dimensional: The object has three dimensions, or characteristics; Height, Width, and Depth.
-Form: A three dimensional work of art.

Materials:
Small paper bag
Scissors
Mat board or cardboard base
Glue
OPTIONAL:
Colored/white tissue paper to represent leaves/snow
Glitter

After introducing the Element of Design: FORM and discussing how trees look different in different seasons, I have the kids cut five lines in their paper bag (bigger bags can support more lines; I predraw the lines for them). Next, they should open the bag. Some kids need help getting it open without ripping it. Once it is open, they should squish the whole bag and twist to create a trunk. Next, twist each individual cut piece at the top. I stress twisting tight, and twisting all the way to the end of the paper.

When all pieces of the tree are twisted, the bag should be glued to the cardboard base. NOTE, it is easier to have them write their name on the cardboard before they glue the bag to it. Details can be added, such as tissue paper for leaves/snow and glitter for the shimmering of a fresh snowfall.

ASSESSMENT: Completed works of art are assessed for completion; I check that there are enough details to make it look done, that all the pieces of paper are fully twisted, etc. and craftsmanship.