Exploring Traits Through Art: Grade 3’s 3D Beetle Project

By Betsey Holland, Pre-K - Grade 3 S.A.I.L. Teacher and Arts Department Chair

During our study of heredity and traits, students in Grade 3 looked to beetles for inspiration. All beetles share the same basic body parts, but have a wide array of unique adaptations to help them survive. For example, some beetles shoot out chemical spray for defense, while others have coloring that mimics a wasp. Each group of students were given a group of beetles to study, draw, and ultimately craft out of a paper grocery bag. Lower School Innovation Specialist Jill Codding and I knew that the beetles had to be 3-dimensional, but we weren't sure what material would be best. Ultimately, I remembered a project from Drawing Workshop for Kids by Samara Caughey in which students build a sculptural human face by bending and gluing paper. I knew this same technique would work to make beetles.

Before sculpting, students drew a detailed, scientific drawing of their beetle. Next, they learned how to shape a paper oval into a rounded object. This became the base onto which all the details were attached. Finally, students painted their beetles accurately, using a mix of watercolor, tempera paint, and colored pencils. As students worked through each phase, different leaders and young experts emerged in the class. One student might be skilled at gluing, while another drew accurate beetle legs. Students looked to each other for help and advice.

This project was a challenge. Students had to be very attentive to construction techniques and small details. They practiced cutting and gluing skills, which are still tricky for many third graders. Additionally, the challenge of turning a 2D image into a 3D object is difficult. The results really are astonishing. Check out the photo album to see samples of their impressive creations.