Terrariums are a trend these days! I love having them in my home as they are happy little gardens that brighten my day. My students didn't know what they were so I showed them lots of photos and made quite a few science connections. Then I showed them some beautiful illustrations of terrariums I found on pinterest and etsy. I even showed them a "How to make Terrariums" video from Martha Stewart's website.
I did two different processes with my groups of classes, mostly to see which worked best. I like them both! All classes practiced drawing jars first (I had a reference for them to look at). They chose their best jar to draw on large paper with sharpie. Then they drew a line for dirt and some rocks. Here's where some of the process was different:
1. Some groups did the wet on wet technique to create "flowers" and they had so much fun watching the colors spread and mix. Once dry, they were encouraged to find these "flowers" and outline them with sharpies.. the shapes were beautiful and organic.
2. Some groups just drew the flowers with sharpie and then painted them.
Lastly, the students watercolored the background in a single color. I was pleased with the outcome, the students enjoyed the process, and they were sent home in time for Mother's Day. The project took 3 class periods. Success! ;)
