**Lesson Plan: Colouring of a Lion**
**Grade Level:** Toddler
**Subject:** Cultural and Creative Arts
**Duration:** 30 minutes
**Objective:**
- To introduce toddlers to the concept of coloring within lines.
- To familiarize them with the image of a lion.
- To stimulate creativity and fine motor skills.
**Materials Needed:**
- Coloring sheets with a simple outline of a lion.
- Crayons, colored pencils, or non-toxic markers.
- Visual aids: pictures or toys of lions.
- A sample colored lion for demonstration.
- Protective smocks or old shirts for the toddlers.
**Lesson Outline:**
1. **Introduction (5 minutes)**
- Greet the students and gather them in a circle.
- Show them a picture or a toy lion and ask, "Does anyone know what this animal is?" Engage with responses.
- Briefly explain that today they will be coloring a picture of a lion. Show them a sample colored lion and say, "Look at this beautiful lion I colored! Today we get to make our own!"
2. **Activity Explanation (5 minutes)**
- Hand out the lion coloring sheets and explain, "These are special lions for you to color. Lions have a mix of colors, usually yellow, brown, or orange, but you can use any colors you like."
- Go over the materials they have in front of them (crayons, colored pencils, or markers).
- Emphasize the importance of trying to color within the lines but reassure them that it's okay if they go outside the lines.
3. **Main Activity (15 minutes)**
- Distribute the coloring sheets and materials to each child.
- Allow the children to start coloring their lions. Walk around the room offering encouragement and assistance.
- Play some soft instrumental music in the background to create a calming atmosphere.
- Provide positive reinforcement, like "Great job!", "I love the colors you chose!", and "Your lion looks wonderful!"
4. **Clean-up and Conclusion (5 minutes)**
- Ask the children to help tidy up by putting away the crayons and markers.
- Collect the completed coloring sheets and display them around the classroom if possible. This can make the children feel proud of their work.
- Gather everyone back into a circle and ask a few children to talk about their lion coloring. Questions could include: "Can you show me your lion?", "What colors did you use?", and "Why did you choose those colors?"
**Assessment:**
- Observation: Make note of each child's engagement and ability to follow the instructions.
- Participation: Encourage each child to share their artwork and give feedback.
**Extension Activity:**
- If time permits, read a short story about lions or sing a song related to lions to maintain their interest and reinforce the lesson.
**Follow-Up:**
- Plan a future lesson where they can learn about other animals and perhaps do another coloring activity or create a collage with different animals.
This lesson plan is designed to be flexible and should be tailored to fit the specific needs and dynamics of your classroom.
**Note to Teacher:**
- Ensure supervision at all times during the use of coloring materials.
- Be prepared for potential messes and have a plan for quick and efficient clean-up.