Lesson Time Allocation Resources Needed Introduction Development Conclusion Assessment
Lesson 1 60 minutes Books or online resources about Ai Weiwei, images of Sunflower Seeds Introduce Ai Weiwei and his most famous work, Sunflower Seeds. Show images and discuss the artwork as a class. Discuss the main art medium Ai Weiwei is known for (installation art) and explain how it can be used to create impactful artworks. Have a class discussion on different types of installation art. Ask students to create a poster or collage showcasing Ai Weiwei and Sunflower Seeds. They should include key information about the artist and their thoughts on the artwork. Encourage creativity and originality. Evaluate the posters or collages based on the content, creativity, and understanding of the subject matter.
Lesson 2 60 minutes Large sheets of paper, paint, brushes, plastic spoons or other small objects Recap the previous lesson by briefly discussing Ai Weiwei and Sunflower Seeds. Show images of Sunflower Seeds again to refresh their memory. Focus on the main art medium Ai Weiwei is known for: sculpture. Explain how Sunflower Seeds is made up of millions of handcrafted porcelain seeds. Discuss the process and materials used. Provide each student with a large sheet of paper and various colors of paint. Instruct them to create their own artwork inspired by Sunflower Seeds using the plastic spoons or other small objects to make textured patterns. Allow students to share their artwork with the class. Discuss the different approaches and techniques used. Encourage positive feedback and appreciation for each other's work. Assess the artwork based on creativity, use of texture, and adherence to the inspiration.
Lesson 3 60 minutes Printouts of original images inspired by Sunflower Seeds Show examples of original images inspired by Sunflower Seeds. Discuss what elements make these images inspired by the artwork. Guide students in examining the details of the images. Discuss the use of color, composition, and subject matter. Encourage critical thinking and observation skills. Provide each student with a printout of an original image inspired by Sunflower Seeds. Instruct them to analyze the image and write down what they think makes it inspired by the artwork. Review the students' written analyses and provide feedback. Discuss their observations as a class. Evaluate the students' written analyses based on their understanding of the inspiration and ability to identify key elements.
Lesson 4 60 minutes Canvas or thick paper, acrylic paint, paintbrushes, palette or paper plates Recap the previous lesson by briefly discussing the original images inspired by Sunflower Seeds. Show a few examples to refresh their memory. Explain that the students will now have the opportunity to create their own painting inspired by Sunflower Seeds. Discuss the use of color and texture in the artwork. Provide each student with a canvas or thick paper, acrylic paint, paintbrushes, and a palette or paper plates. Instruct them to create their own painting using Sunflower Seeds as inspiration. Encourage experimentation with different brush strokes and color combinations. Allow students to share their paintings in an interesting way, such as creating a mini art gallery in the classroom or organizing an art exhibition. Encourage them to explain their inspiration and artistic choices to their peers. Assess the paintings based on creativity, use of color and texture, and connection to the inspiration.
Lesson 5 60 minutes Construction paper, scissors, glue, markers Recap the previous lesson by briefly discussing the students' paintings inspired by Sunflower Seeds. Show a few examples to refresh their memory. Introduce the concept of sharing artwork in an interesting way. Discuss different types of art installations and the impact they can have on viewers. Provide each student with construction paper, scissors, glue, and markers. Instruct them to create a 3D art installation using their paintings and other materials. Encourage them to think about the arrangement, composition, and overall impact of their installation. Allow students to share their 3D art installations with the class. Encourage them to explain their artistic choices and the message they want to convey. Assess the 3D art installations based on creativity, composition, and ability to convey a message or evoke emotions.
Lesson 6 60 minutes Cameras or smartphones with camera function Recap the previous lesson by briefly discussing the students' 3D art installations and their impact. Show a few examples to refresh their memory. Introduce the concept of documenting artwork through photography. Discuss the importance of capturing the essence of the installation and the artist's intentions. Provide each student with a camera or smartphone with a camera function. Instruct them to take photographs of their own 3D art installations from different angles and perspectives. Encourage them to experiment with lighting and composition. Allow students to share their photographs with the class. Discuss the different approaches and perspectives captured in the images. Assess the photographs based on composition, creativity, and ability to capture the essence of the 3D art installations.