Middle School

Artworks by LeSean C. (left and middle) and Cameron W. (right).

The Essential Questions
How can artists be responsible and resourceful about minimizing the waste of art materials?

Objective
Students will make collages using paper scraps to learn how to be resourceful with art materials.

Materials
various scrap papers collected from previous art projects or classroom waste, glue, scissors, pencils or other drawing materials, examples of collages

Procedures
1. Place scrap materials in the center of each table or show them to the class. Ask, “What are some things artists could do to reduce the amount of waste they create?”
2. Lead a discussion about why we would want to reduce the amount of waste we create in the art-making process. Ask, “Have you ever tried to make art out of leftover scraps? How did it go?”
3. Show a variety of collage examples to the class.
4. Hand out scissors and an uncut piece of scrap paper to each student. Instruct them to write their name on the back of the paper before creating a collage on the front. Give students five minutes to explore and arrange materials before handing out the glue.
5. Give students five-minuteʼs notice before collecting the materials. Place all collages in the front of the room so they are visible to the entire class. Then have students work together to collect the scraps.
6. Give students slips of paper to anonymously vote for their favorite collage. A second and third place winner could be chosen and awards could be presented. Ask the winning students to share one sentence about their collage with the class.

Assessment
Did students meet the objective and demonstrate resourcefulness with the materials?

Sarah Swanson is an art teacher at Green Tree School and Services in in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.