Leaf Impressions

Leaf Impressions lesson plan

The science of leaves, leaf parts, and why leaves change colors leaves an impression on students as they create realistic leaf impressions.

  • 1.

    Find out why leaves change color in temperate climates in the fall. What weather conditions are necessary? Why do colors vary, even within a single leaf? Collect safe, fallen leaves that are still pliable.

  • 2.

    Form a tennis-ball sized piece of Crayola® Model Magic® into a circle with the heel of your hand, or roll it with a dowel stick. Make it consistently thick, round, and smooth (use a damp finger).

  • 3.

    Firmly press the back of a leaf into the modeling compound to make a deep impression. Use a craft stick or other modeling tool to add definition if necessary. With a dowel stick, poke a hole in the top of the compound so it can be hung. Dry 24 hours.

  • 4.

    Cover your work area with recycled newspaper. Experiment with Crayola Washable Watercolors and Watercolor Brushes to match leaf colors on the impression. Paint the background a contrasting color. Highlight veins with lighter or darker hues. Dry overnight.

  • 5.

    Measure with a ruler and cut 6 inches of yarn or ribbon with Crayola Scissors. Thread it through the hole. Knot and hang.

Benefits

  • Students increase knowledge of plant life as they observe the structures and colors of fall leaves. They name and classify samples collected on a leaf hunt.
  • Children research why leaves change color and find out the names of leaf parts.
  • Students make a leaf impression and experiment with color mixing to match natural leaf coloration.

Adaptations

  • Students label leaf parts to demonstrate their knowledge for assessment purposes.
  • Make several impressions to form a leaf bas-relief.
  • Students collect leaves with their families, or ask relatives and e-pals in other areas to send them samples of fallen leaves. <i>This lesson plan was adapted from ideas submitted by Jean Marie Peedle of Northville, Michigan, for the 50 States - 50 Weeks series.</i>
  • Younger students and those with special needs may benefit from short practice sessions experimenting with watercolor painting before painting final artwork.