Water Color Butterflies

A. Wills
Multiple Subject Teacher

In this visual arts lesson, students will create a tye-dyed or water color butterfly to show how colors mix.

Grade Level: K - 2nd

Subject:

Length of Time: About 30 Minutes

Objectives & Outcomes

Learners will be able to create a butterfly with multiple colors in which some colors blend.

Materials Needed

  • coffee filters
  • washable markers (red, blue, and yellow only)
  • spray bottle (water)
  • pipe cleaners (can also use clothes pins)
  • hair dryer (optional)
  • string (for hanging)

Procedure

Opening to Lesson

Begin by telling students they are going to make beautiful, colorful butterflies. Ask students if they have ever seen or owned a tye-dyed shirt or other piece of clothing. Review with students how mixing certain colors will create new colors.

Body of Lesson

  • Explain to students that you are going to make butterfly wings out of coffee filters. Have students flatten the filters as much as possible.
  • Allow students to color the filters using the washable markers, creating patterns, but leaving some white so colors may blend.
  • After each student is finished coloring allow them to lightly spray the filter and watch as colors combine and blend.
  • If desired, allow students to dry the filter with a hair dryer or simply lay flat to dry.

Closing

Have students take a pipe cleaner that has been folded in half and place it around the center of the filter. Twist the top to serve as antennae. If desired use a clothes pin as the center (body). Hang butterflies as decoration.

FIND SCHOOLS
Sponsored Content

Assessment & Evaluation

Students will be assessed both on participation and final project outcome.

Modification & Differentiation

Students with certain disabilities may need extended time or help spraying the filter.

Related Lesson Plans

Bird Feeder Fun

Students will create an all natural bird feeder to hang near the school to feed birds during the various seasons.

Bear Hunt Obstacle Course

This plan will combine reading with balance and coordination skills to allow students to navigate a simple obstacle course.

Upside Down Art

This lesson will allow students to practice creating art from a unique perspective while learning about Michelangelo.

Exchanging Time

The lesson is used for students to practice basic time measurement, and understanding the basic units of time.

Ready to Pursue a Master’s Degree in Education? Make it Your Time!

Teacher.org’s lesson plans encourage conceptual understanding and lifelong learning skills in students as well as empower and motivate teachers.

Are you currently teaching but have the desire to pursue a Master’s Degree in Education? Follow your passion for teaching but at the same time give yourself the tools to further your career and learning. Whether it’s higher salaries, advanced career opportunities, or leadership positions, earning your Master’s Degree in Education is one worth pursuing. Make it your time!