Creating the Water Cycle – Arts and Craft
This creative short course immerses students in the world of the water cycle through artistic expression. Over the week, students will design their own water cycle wheels, exploring artistic techniques such as emphasis, contrast, and movement to create a visually stunning representation of this natural process. Through colour, shape, and depth, students will bring each stage of the water cycle to life, learning how art can be used to communicate scientific ideas.
Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Goal 4: Quality Education
Goal 13: Climate Action
100% Free Course
What is this Course About?
Join us on an artistic journey to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, where we’ll explore the water cycle from evaporation to precipitation. The course starts with a video showcasing the unique water systems found in Antarctica, followed by hands-on activities where students will create their own water cycle wheels. By using symbols, colours, and artistic techniques, students will craft dynamic visuals that explain the stages of the water cycle, while learning how to balance elements and create depth in their designs. Students will also have the chance to share their wheels with younger children, teaching them about the water cycle in a fun and engaging way.
Skills We Will Cover
- Artistic Techniques: Learn how to use contrast, emphasis, and balance to create an engaging water cycle wheel that tells a visual story.
- Creative Expression: Design your own water cycle using Canva or traditional materials, bringing each stage of the cycle to life through colour and shape.
- Critical Thinking: Understand how different design choices can communicate scientific ideas and make learning more accessible to others.
- Collaboration: Work together to discuss and critique each other’s designs, sharing ideas and refining your artwork with constructive feedback.
- Problem-Solving: Use artistic concepts to solve challenges like creating balance in your composition or deciding which elements to emphasise.
- Personal Growth: Reflect on your artistic choices and gain confidence in communicating complex ideas visually.
What Will We Create?
Students will create a spinning water cycle wheel, illustrating the key stages: evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection. By using contrasting colours, shapes, and techniques, they will design a wheel that clearly demonstrates the water cycle in action. Once complete, students can use their wheels to teach younger children about this important environmental process.
Lesson Plans
Teachers will have access to detailed lesson plans that align with Visual Arts, Science, and Technology curriculum objectives. These plans guide teachers in helping students understand key artistic and scientific concepts, ensuring that the lessons are both educational and engaging. The activities encourage students to think critically about how art can be used to communicate science in an accessible way.
Real-World Learning
This course allows students to apply their artistic and scientific knowledge to real-world contexts, such as teaching younger students about the water cycle. By exploring how visual art can communicate scientific ideas, students develop a deeper understanding of both subjects and gain confidence in presenting their work to others. The hands-on approach fosters creativity and critical thinking, ensuring that learning is fun and practical.
