Preschool/KG
FromMore Than Painting,
Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus
What to have
- white construction paper, 9 by 12 inches
- 4 sets of chalk, each with 3 or 4 colors
- 4 small trays or cups, to hold the chalk
- smocks (optional)
What to do
This activity introduces chalk as a drawing medium. As children experiment with chalk and compare it to the more familiar crayons, they quickly notice both similarities and differences. As with crayons, children can use both the end and the side of chalk. They can create lines, shapes, and representational forms with chalk, and any negative spaces left in their designs can be filled in with more chalk. On the other hand, chalk blends and smudges more easily than crayon, and its color and texture can be changed by spraying it with water. Children quickly observe that chalk leaves a dust residue on their paper. Chalk is available in several types. The most appropriate chalk for young children is thick sidewalk chalk or thin sticks of white or colored chalk sold in sets. Other types of chalk are more suitable for older children because they can stain both hands and clothing. Teachers can display colored chalk in a small tray so that children can quickly observe the selection of colors available.
Helpful Hints
Break each stick of chalk into two pieces to conserve the supply. Pieces of chalk about 1-inch long may encourage children to explore the effects of drawing with the flat side.
Why
Children experiment with chalk and compare it to the more familiar crayons. They will note that they can use both ends of the sidewalk chalk. Children will experiment and observe with the chalk blends and smudges more easily than crayon, and its color and texture can be changed by spraying it with water. Children will note that chalk leaves a dust residue on their paper.
For more activities check out
More Than Painting: Exploring the Wonders of Art
By Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus Copyright 1999 Preschool/KG