How Do The Kids See Our Garden?
I am curious about how kids see our garden, so I encourage them to post their drawings, photos, videos, & articles they made during garden activities on Schoology, an online learning management system.
I posted a beautiful picture taken by a learner during the Nature Walk at our school. She took it from a low angle, putting her iPad on the ground, which made it a unique photo.
Plant Choice in Drawing
In early November, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders tried realistic drawing in the garden.
They explored and chose the plants to draw. I was interested in what plants they picked. What attracted their attention in the garden? As you might think, many drew beautiful flowers. However, some learners chose the okra plants, which were almost dying. They were tall but had few flowers and leaves because of the cold weather. I thought I had to take them out before the class, but I was glad I left them there.
Kids are often interested in things adults aren’t. I think they have different perspectives on the world.
Observing the Details
We instructed the learners to focus on the details of the plants to draw realistically. When they visit the garden, I want them to look closer at the plants so they learn about the shapes, colors, and textures.
Drawing is a joyful tool to open their eyes to the details otherwise they overlook. Also, it is excellent feedback on what they saw in the garden.
I posted some of their excellent work below. I was impressed by how well the learners observed the plant’s traits, such as shapes, colors, and hues, and drew them in about 30 minutes!
