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Many years ago (20) I developed an apple lesson while student teaching
elementary school art. I've continued to use it at the high school and
middle school level, too. Results are always great, but the little guys
in elementary school always seem to come up with the most creative
I give each child a pre-washed apple, and I guide them through "eating
an apple" with their 5 physical senses. Please pick up the apple. Notice
its weight. Identify all the colors you see. What does it smell like?
What is its shape/form? What does the stem look like? What does the skin
feel like? Take a bite. What does a bite sound like? What shape did your
teeth leave on the apple? How juicy is it? How could you describe the
flavor? etc. etc. until all that's left is a core. While the core is
slowly turning brown around the edges, explain how art is made to
communicate an idea, and their job is to communicate their experience of
eating an apple in as much detail as possible. They much take an event
that takes place over time and reduce it into an image on paper.
I usually provide 12X18 paper and markers or colored pencils. I try to
give as few directions as possible, so students can originate their own
solutions. The lesson is easily adapted to any age level.
Brattleoro Area Middle School