
Paper Mache Zoo
In this visual arts lesson, students will create zoo animals (or any animals) using paper mache. The ‘zoo’ can be displayed in the classroom or in a localized area of the school.
Grade Level: 5 - 12th
Subject: Arts
Length of Time: Varies Depending on Grade Level and Depth of Project
Objectives & Outcomes
Learners will be able to demonstrate planning skills in creating a zoo animal as well as create a visual art piece appropriate for the project.
Materials Needed
- masking tape
- newspaper (strips and sheets)
- paper mache (1 cup flour to 1 cup of water) to create a glue like consistency
- paint brushes
- paint (simple tempera paints will work)
Procedure
Opening to Lesson
Begin by telling students they are going to bring the zoo to school in a fun and creative way. Tell students to choose an animal from the zoo that they would like to ‘create’.
Body of Lesson
- Have students create a form for their animal using balled up newspaper, tape, and cardboard if available.
- Make sure the form is complete and stable before adding any paper mache.
- Dip strips of newspaper into the paper mache (glue) and add strips to the form to offer bulk to the new creature.
- Continue until the surface is smooth and the form looks like the desired animal. This step may take several days.
- Allow strips to dry completely before painting.
Closing
Have students paint their animals in appropriate colors and patterns. Display animals in a make shift zoo in the school.
*If the school has an art auction fund raiser these are great projects*
Assessment & Evaluation
Students will be assessed both on participation and final project (appropriateness, creativity, etc.)
Modification & Differentiation
Students with certain disabilities may need extended time or to create smaller projects.
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