### Lesson Plan: Simple Sculpture for Grade 1
**Grade Level:** 1
**Subject:** Art
**Lesson Duration:** 60 minutes
**Topic:** Simple Sculpture
#### Objectives:
- Students will understand the basics of sculpture.
- Students will create a simple sculpture using model clay.
- Students will enhance their creativity and fine motor skills.
#### Materials Needed:
- Model clay (assorted colors)
- Plastic sculpting tools
- Craft sticks
- Paper plates or disposable placemats
- Wet wipes or paper towels
- Aprons or old shirts to protect clothing
- Cardstock (for name tags)
#### Standards Met:
- **Arts Standard 1.3:** Students will use different media, techniques, and processes to communicate ideas, experiences, and stories.
- **Fine Motor Skills Development:** Enhancing hand-eye coordination by manipulating materials.
---
### Lesson Steps:
#### Introduction (10 minutes)
1. **Welcome and Introduction:**
- Greet the students and invite them to sit in a circle.
- Briefly explain what a sculpture is and show some simple examples (pictures or small 3D models).
2. **Discussion:**
- Ask the students if they have ever made or seen a sculpture before.
- Explain that today they will become artists and make their own sculptures with clay.
#### Demonstration (10 minutes)
1. **Basic Techniques:**
- Show how to handle and mold the clay (roll, pinch, flatten, coil).
- Demonstrate using basic tools to add details and textures.
2. **Safety and Cleanliness:**
- Remind students to keep their work area tidy and use wet wipes if needed.
- Explain the importance of sharing tools and being gentle with each other’s work.
#### Activity (30 minutes)
1. **Creating Sculptures:**
- Distribute model clay, tools, and paper plates to each student.
- Encourage students to think about what they want to make (e.g., animals, shapes, people).
2. **Guided Exploration:**
- Walk around the classroom, providing assistance and positive reinforcement.
- Ask guiding questions like, “What are you making?” and “What colors will you use?”
3. **Quiet Work Time:**
- Allow students to work independently or in small groups, fostering collaborative creativity.
#### Sharing and Reflection (10 minutes)
1. **Displaying Work:**
- Ask students to place their finished sculptures on a designated table or area.
- Encourage students to walk around and look at each other’s work.
2. **Discussion:**
- Facilitate a brief classroom discussion. Ask students to share what they created and how they felt during the process.
3. **Names and Titles:**
- Provide cardstock for students to write their names and the title of their sculpture. Place these next to their sculptures.
---
### Closing (5 minutes)
1. **Clean-Up:**
- Guide students in cleaning up their work area and washing their hands.
- Collect all tools and leftover materials.
2. **Wrap-Up:**
- Recap the lesson and praise the students’ efforts.
- Inform students about the next art lesson and what they might look forward to.
#### Assessment:
- **Observation:** Monitor students’ engagement and use of materials during the activity.
- **Participation:** Assess students based on their participation in creating, discussing, and sharing their sculptures.
---
### Extension Activities (for early finishers or additional time):
- **Story Time:** Read a short storybook about an artist or sculptor.
- **Drawing Practice:** Have students draw their sculpture on paper and color it.
- **Texture Rubbing:** Provide textured objects (e.g., leaves, fabric) for students to create rubbings with crayons.
By the end of the lesson, students will have a greater appreciation for the art of sculpture while developing their artistic skills and creativity.