Ms.

Bolintineanu
Saving Endangered Species Youth Art Contest Lesson Plan
Cielo Azul Elementary School
Kindergarten-Fifth Grade

Lesson Overview
Students will learn about the Endangered Species Coalition and many of the endangered
species found around the world. Students will discuss various methods conservationists
are using to protect endangered species including success stories of species that have been
removed from endangered lists and are considered recovered. Students will create original
artwork featuring an endangered animal of their choice. The teacher will select two
artworks from each grade to be submitted to the ESC for their annual Youth Art Contest.
Student selections will be featured on the class website, www.caesart.weebly.com

Objectives:
Students will:
1. Identify several endangered species and what biologists and conservationists do to
help protect them.
2. Practice sketching endangered animals using a variety of art materials.
3. Create an original artwork using an animal photograph as source material.
4. Submit their artwork as part of the Endangered Species Coalition Youth Art Contest.

New Mexico Visual Arts Standards Addressed (K-5):

1.1B

2.2A

3.3B.2

K-1 1. Use a variety of art materials and related skills.
2-3 1. Demonstrate increased skill with materials, tools and techniques.
4-5 1. Select a variety of materials, tools and techniques for producing desired artistic
results.


K-1 2. Express ideas, feelings and experiences in making art.
2-3 2. Express ideas, feelings and experiences in making art.
4-5 2. Use knowledge of local and global communities as inspiration for expression in visual
art.


K-1 2. Discuss connections between themes used in visual arts and other content areas (e.g.,
stories in art and language arts or scientific concepts
about the seasons, as shown in art).
2-3 2. Describe connections between visual arts and other content areas.
4-5 2. Describe relationships between visual art and other content areas.

Preparation:
Samples, handouts, and other guides
http://www.endangered.org/campaigns/endangered-species-day/2016-saving-
endangered-species-youth-art-contest/ (see for links to lists of endangered species)
PowerPoint presentation with photographs and vocabulary

Printed and laminated photos of endangered plants and animals

Tracing or pattern supplies for younger age groups

Art Supplies and Materials (options vary by age group):
Drawings (resist)
o Oil pastel (black or white)
o Watercolor
o Brushes
o Water buckets
o Thick white paper
Drawings (traditional)
o Pencils and erasers
o Colored pencil
o White paper
o Watercolor (optional)
o Watercolor pencils (optional)
Collage
o Glue/glue sticks
o Scrap tissue pieces
o Construction paper
o Sharpie markers
o Pencils
o Cardboard or card stock

Vocabulary:
Endangered species: Plants and animal species that are disappearing due to habitat
loss. They are in danger of become extinct, or ceasing to exist.
Conservation/conservationist: the act of preserving, protecting and restoring a
habitat or species. A person who advocates for the protection and preservation of
the environment and wildlife.
Habitat: The natural home or environment of a plant, animal, or other species.
Species: A group of similar living organisms capable of interbreeding.

Lesson Overview:
Daily plan will vary by material and grade level. Allow 2-3 days for entire project.