BACKGROUND:
Robots Everywhere, by Denny Hebson, is a funny book for kids that follows robots living their everyday lives–lives that seem almost too similar to the ones that we live. Your students will be captivated by the story, the illustrations, and the idea of robots. So the natural next step would be to let them create their own. Although connecting wires, soldering metal, and writing code is just a little too advanced for your students, you’ll be amazed by what they can make when given foam, glue, and other simple materials for our robots are lesson!
OBJECTIVE:
Recognize and create with geometric shapes. Practice creating a figure using a robot form for inspiration. Explore and experiment with art materials and techniques.
NATIONAL CORE ART STANDARDS:
Anchor Standard #1
-Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
Anchor Standard #2
-Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Anchor Standard #3
-Refine and Complete artistic work.
Anchor Standard #6
-Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic
work.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Students love robots! Introduce the variety of robot types by reading the book, Robots Everywhere. This project gives students practice using geometric shapes and the collage technique to create their robot. Students will also be introduced to different types of glue for different purposes. When complete, students can tell a short story about their robot when they share their project with the class.
Step 1:
Read “Robots Everywhere”. Talk a bit about how robots are similar to people with a head, body, arms and legs. You will need to demonstrate using the Tacky Glue – it doesn’t take much glue to stick, but they need to hold down the foam pieces for a few seconds – count to 20. (I usually put a small amount of glue on a plastic lid and give students a craft stick to spread the glue). If using construction paper review using white glue.
Step 2:
To begin they need to add some drawing to their background paper. They can draw what they would like as long as they cover the paper. You might suggest using some geometric shapes. (This is an optional first step if you have time). When finished with the background they can pick the parts to create their robot. They need to lay out the basic body before any gluing.
Step 3:
First glue the body down, and then add embellishments. (This example shows the construction paper option. If using construction paper – use white glue instead of Tacky Glue). Projects will be very wet with glue!
Step 4:
Give students time to clean up their work space then have a “gallery walk” around the room to look at the finished work. Allow time for students to share their stories about their Robots.
NOTE:
To make this art project a Display My Art fundraiser, use construction paper rather than foam, and glue the robots onto Display My Art drawing paper! Or you can take photos of your finished 3D work and glue that to our paper.
FUN FACTS:
While your students are working on their pieces, teach them these fun facts about robots!
HELPFUL REOURCES:
Robots Everywhere by Denny Hebson on Amazon