SaharaTulip: 3rd Grade Art Lesson: Kinetic Kites (Part 2)

Two weeks ago the children in the art class that I volunteer teach painted 6 rectangles in the colors of the rainbow. We had a lesson on secondary colors and painted all 6 colors using only the 3 primary colors.

Today we took the rectangles, turned them into kites and made mobiles, just like our inspiration, Alexander Calder.

3rd Grade Art Lesson: Kinetic Kites (Park 2)

We started by cutting our rectangles into kite shapes.

I gave each child scissors, a pencil and an extra piece of blank painting paper to make a kite template to use. We folded our paper lengthwise, then folded down two of the corners towards the middle fold.

3rd Grade Art Lesson: Kinetic Kites (Park 2)

The kids drew out the lines the corner folds created. To break down the next set of lines I showed them how to make, check out the diagram below. I had them draw out two lines that connected the C to B and D.

3rd Grade Art Lesson: Kinetic Kites (Park 2)

Once all four lines are draw, they cut out the template. They then placed this template on the back of their 6 painted rectangles, traced it out and cut out the kite shapes.

Giving them the directions for the template allows them not only the ability to practice cutting the thicker paper on unpainted trial paper, it also teaches them the usefulness of templates when creating multiple pieces that need to look identical.

I gave them wire, ribbon and yarn, along with a main "line" from which to tie the kites from, scissors and hole punches. They also got their art journals and pencils to draw out different designs. I placed some mobile ideas on the board and let them loose.

They then pushed back their seats and get on the floor to build their kinetic sculptures.

3rd Grade Art Lesson: Kinetic Kites (Park 2)

I managed to snap a few photos of the kinetic masterpieces before a few done ones went home. I love how the students show their individuality in how they tied their kites to the main line. I hope they brighten up a few Seattle winter homes in the next few weeks.