# Lesson Plan: Printmaking for Year 4 Students
## Lesson Information
- **Grade Level:** Year 4
- **Subject:** The Arts
- **Lesson Duration:** 60 minutes
- **Topic:** Printmaking
## Learning Objectives
- Students will understand the basics of printmaking, including its history and different techniques.
- Students will learn to create their own prints using simple materials.
- Students will develop an appreciation for the creative process and artistic expression.
## Materials Needed
- Pencils and erasers
- Drawing paper
- Styrofoam sheets (cut to the size of a small notepad)
- Ballpoint pens
- Washable tempera paint or printing ink
- Paint rollers or brayers
- Paper or cardstock for printing
- Newspapers or plastic tablecloths to cover work surfaces
- Aprons or old shirts to protect clothing
## Lesson Outline
### Introduction (10 minutes)
1. **Greeting and Attendance:** Briefly greet students and take attendance.
2. **Introduction to Printmaking:**
- Start with a short explanation of what printmaking is and its historical significance.
- Discuss different types of printmaking such as woodcuts, etchings, and linocuts.
- Show examples of famous prints and printmaking artists (use images or slides for visual reference).
### Demonstration (10 minutes)
1. **Explain the Process:**
- Describe the steps involved in making a simple print using Styrofoam sheets.
- Emphasize the importance of safety when using materials and tools.
2. **Live Demonstration:**
- Draw a simple design on paper and then transfer it onto a Styrofoam sheet by tracing it with a ballpoint pen.
- Highlight the importance of pressing hard enough to make indentations without tearing the Styrofoam.
- Apply paint to the Styrofoam using a roller or brayer, ensuring an even coating.
- Press the painted Styrofoam onto paper to transfer the design.
- Carefully lift the Styrofoam to reveal the print.
### Activity (30 minutes)
1. **Student Practice:**
- Distribute materials to each student.
- Allow students to sketch their designs on paper first.
- Assist them in transferring their sketches onto Styrofoam sheets using ballpoint pens.
- Guide students as they apply paint and create their prints on paper or cardstock.
- Encourage creativity and experimentation with different designs and colors.
- Circulate around the room to offer help and praise.
### Clean-Up (5 minutes)
1. **Cleaning Up:**
- Instruct students to clean their stations, including wiping down tables and properly disposing of any waste materials.
- Collect and store leftover materials for future use.
### Reflection and Discussion (5 minutes)
1. **Show and Tell:**
- Allow students to share their prints with the class.
- Discuss the different techniques and styles observed in their prints.
- Positive feedback and constructive criticism should be encouraged.
2. **Closing Discussion:**
- Recap what was learned about printmaking.
- Ask students what they found most enjoyable or challenging about the activity.
- Preview the next lesson or consider any connections to future projects.
## Differentiation
- For students who may find it difficult to create their own designs, provide simple templates or stencils.
- Advanced students can be challenged to create more intricate designs or try different color schemes.
## Assessment
- Observe student participation and engagement during the activity.
- Assess the final prints for creativity, effort, and understanding of the printmaking process.
- Informal feedback during the lesson will be used to gauge comprehension and skill level.
## Extension Activities
- Students can write a short paragraph about what they learned and how they felt about the printmaking process.
- Incorporate a history lesson on a famous printmaker and have students create prints inspired by their work.
- Explore other printmaking techniques in future lessons, such as collagraph printing or monoprinting.
By the end of this lesson, students will have a hands-on understanding of printmaking, an appreciation for the art form, and their own prints to take home and share!