THIRD GRADE . . . learning how to see 3D

In third grade we are creating 3-dimensional animals out of clay. In preparation for this project, students brought into school a stuffed animal that they could use as a model. It is difficult to understand how to mold the shapes of the animal if we are not used to seeing it in a 3-dimensional form. To practice seeing 3D forms, we created drawings of our animals from six different view points, using the layout of a cube.

Cube layout by Ashley

Cube layout by Lucia

On one side of the cube we drew the front of the animal as it is facing us. Then we drew the two sides of the animal, the back, the top, and even how it appeared from underneath! A nose that looks flat from the front projects out when you look at it from the side. We learned a lot about the shapes of our animals this way.

Here are some finished cubes! To see all of our cubes, click on this link for artsonia.com.
http://www.artsonia.com/schools/school.asp?id=114839

Artwork by Nicholas

Artwork by Lauren

Artwork by Nehemiah

Note to families...
This art blog will be updated regularly with new posts sharing our daily activities in the art room and news about upcoming art exhibits. To respect the privacy of our students, names will always be limited to first name only and identifiable photos will never be accompanied with a name. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to write in the comment box below or send me an email at blevine@ranneyschool.org. I would love to hear from you!
    In my class, students are given the chance to explore different materials and fun new techniques as they develop their signature style. Some young artists love to draw with a pencil, some like to paint on canvas or create images in a digital format, while others prefer working with clay and molding three-dimensional forms. In my classroom, we use a variety of materials allowing all artists to experiment and figure out which type of art they like the best. At Ranney School, we place a strong emphasis on originality and celebrate artistic differences, always nurturing and encouraging the imagination of every student.
     Remember to check out our display of finished artwork and student portfolios in the Ranney home page of Artsonia.com.  http://www.artsonia.com/schools/school.asp?id=114839