Lesson Plan Sample 1

Ages 4-6 Creative Arts Center, Arcadia, CA

JOURNEY was the theme for the four-week summer camp in Arcadia, CA. I organized a series of multi-step projects that spanned each week. Over the course of the camp, there were a total of four individual projects. Additionally, there was a group project that allowed all the children to collaborate on their free time. The group project was focused on building a massive whale structure. In my class, we were responsible for crafting floating fish that would be suspended from strings and placed inside the whale installation. Additionally, we created oversized scales for a larger fish that would be incorporated into the overall design. Seeing our creations come to life, floating gracefully within the installation, was a truly rewarding experience.

Preparation Summary: The children have been preparing for the project's journey theme. They have been thinking about their destination, the vehicle they will use to get there, the animal that will accompany them, the route they will take, the sights they will pass along the way, and what they plan to do when they finally arrive. They have brainstormed and discussed their ideas with each other. This preparation has allowed the children to develop their imagination and critical thinking skills, as well as foster a sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming journey and projects they'll be making.

Week 1:

The class chooses a vehicle and creates a vehicle for transportation. Group Whale project is explained and they start working on the fish on their free time.

Week Two:

Class draws their chosen animal and creates a mono print of their roadmap, using a resist with ink, and making stamps. We discuss where they'll go and what they'll see along the way; mountains, rivers, lakes, forests, farm animals, for example, and include these landmarks on the maps

Road maps with their books attached on display

Week Three:

Children make nature books and record their journey; draw themselves, the activities they will engage in, and the unique flowers, trees, and insects inhabiting their special place.

Week Four:

Kids finish all work, and create a large on-site temporary road map on the classroom floor, and prepare for final group party celebration for the parents.