First Week of Art Class-8 Quick Projects to Spark Creativity.
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It’s awesome to both be re-united with students and meet new kiddos during the first week of art class. It does get a little tedious, however, going over the rules, procedures and giving out assigned seats. I have always tried to give the students a chance to draw or do something creative on the very first day. The typical first day run-down is necessary but not particularly enjoyable for both the teacher and the students. The students are always happy to do something creative and it’s a great way to get to know them better.
First Week of Art Class Ideas:
- Mice Color Theory Activities-As a class, we read the story Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh. I have the kids take turns mixing paint colors in Zipblock bags (each set of primary into secondary combos). They also complete a mouse paint color wheel or mouse themed coloring page. (Kindergarten and 1st)
- Symbolic Palette Design-Here the students use a paint palette template. In each of the paint splotches, they add a symbol that tells something special about themselves. Having the students add meaningful symbols within their work during the first week of art class is one of my go-to’s. (works with younger grades)
- All About Me Drawing Activity -The students are given “fancy frame” worksheets with designated spots to draw about their favorite things/ interests. (mid-upper grades)
- Artist Apron Design-Using a blank apron template as well as handouts with design ideas, the students will design their own artist apron. (Any grade level- You can ask older kids for more intricate designs).
- Personal Crown Design-Each student has a choice of a crown template. Many of the crown details are large shapes that are meant to contain mini drawings. The overall theme for the mini drawings are things about themselves that the students are proud of. (mid-upper grades)
- Art Themed Sneaker Design-Using a sneaker template, the students will create an art themed sneaker using their favorite art supply imagery.
- Drippy Lettering Drawing-Inspired by the art of Jen Stark, have your students draw an “I heart art” drawing in her drippy art style. Students can also choose to draw their name instead. This lesson can be turned into a multi week lesson if completed on larger paper or completed on a portfolio.
- Graffiti Name Design–Students can either do a one day graffiti style drawing of their name or work on a multi-week drawing on larger paper or portfolio. Have them incorporate fun little doodles, to make the work even more representative of themselves.
–Ultra Fine Sharpies are in constant rotation! If I end up having enough time, I let the kids use them in their mini art activity the first week. It’s also a good time to teach them to always have scrap paper underneath while using permanent markers.
*The more inclusion of personal symbols or imagery during the first week of art class, the better. This is a fun way to get to know your students. It is also a great opportunity for the kids to communicate what they want you to know about them.
Another article that provides a lot of value for elementary art teachers in the beginning of the year is: How to Plan for Your Next Art Room Setup to Go Off Without a Hitch with these 16 Suggestions. Here you will find a lot of great tips and tricks that I have used throughout the years to guide me in my classroom setup. There is so much to think about in the beginning of the school year that it can make your head spin! Hopefully my tried and true setup methods will make things a bit less overwhelming for you!
*If you would like a series of low prep and bite sized activities (printed worksheets, crayons, sharpies, etc.) I offer these particular lessons in my TPT store.
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