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Lesson by:

Keisha Casiano

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Description of Lesson

In this lesson, students will be inspired by the story of "The Ugly Duckling" and contemporary artist Lucy Tiffney to create their own unique illustrations. They will explore various artistic techniques, including shape, line, color mixing, and composition, to depict a beautiful background and a character based on the story.

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Lesson Goals

  • I can create an illustration inspired by the story of "The Ugly Duckling."
  • I can use simple shapes, colors, and lines to create a beautiful background.
  • I can mix different shades of blue to represent water.
  • I can draw and color an ugly duckling using oil pastels.
  • I can assemble my artwork to depict the ugly duckling in its environment.

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Looks at this Art!!

Images Credit:

Images Credit: https://guntergallery.com/collections/lisa-congdon

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Image of final product

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Suggested Supplies

  • High-Quality Art to Remember Paper
  • Storybook "The Ugly Duckling"
  • Examples of Lucy Tiffney's artwork
  • Drawing paper
  • Construction paper
  • Paint
  • Paintbrushes
  • Oil pastels
  • Scissors
  • Glue

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Step 1:

  • Introduction to the Story: Read the Ugly Duckling story to the students, discussing its themes and messages.
  • Artist Study: Show and discuss the work of Lucy Tiffany, focusing on her use of shapes, colors, and lines to create beautiful scenery.
  • Background Creation: Students will use construction paper to create a background inspired by Tiffany’s style.Encourage the use of simple shapes and lines to represent greenery and other elements.

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Step 2:

  • Introduction to Water Representation: Discuss different shades of blue and how water can be represented in art.
  • Painting Activity:Provide students with blue and white paint. Students will create various shades of blue by mixing the paints. Use these shades to paint paper, which will be used for the water/pond in their artwork.

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Step 3:

  • Guided Drawing: Provide each student with a 5x7 piece of white construction paper.Guide students in drawing their Ugly Duckling using simple shapes.Once drawn, have students color their ducklings with oil pastels.
  • Assembly: Have students tear the painted blue paper to create a water effect. Glue the torn blue paper to the bottom of their background scenes. Finally, glue their drawn and colored ducklings on top of the blue paper to complete their artwork.

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Students will reflect on the story of The Ugly Duckling and their artistic process. They will share their artwork with the class, discussing how they incorporated elements inspired by Lucy Tiffany and how their illustrations tell the story of the Ugly Duckling. This lesson combines storytelling, artistic inspiration, and practical art techniques to help students create a meaningful and cohesive piece of art.

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Student Samples

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Additional Resources

  • Art to Remember

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  • Please include your information (optional)
    • Instagram: @Artfunwithms.c

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