Integrated Lesson Plan
Subject: Art
Grade Level: 9th Grade
Lesson: Figure in Motion-(short animation using clay figures)
This lesson will be used in a unit for the figure in motion. The objective of the lesson will be to teach students about the anatomy of the figure and how it moves. We will then use what we have learned on the anatomy and motion and create small clay sculptures as our characters in a short animated film.
The first session will be done independently, in which the students will have the opportunity to learn the bascis of the human form. They will be required to have a sketchbook with various drawings on the sketletal structure, muscles and joints. They will need to research and use the biology labs as references. The sketches will then be analyzed and shared with the class for discussion and critique.
Once a basic understanding of the figure is established, a trip will be arranged in a local dance studio, where the students can sketch freely and put together what they have learned of the anatomy of the body with motion. They will have quick gesture drawings which will allow them to see how the body can move and how the joints and muscles they have studied come into play.
The student will then be put into groups of 3 to 4 and will have to come up with a short story which will be used for their animation. Once all storylines are reviewed and approved, the students will be responsible for setting up a backdrop(stage& props) for their scenes. It can range from nature, interiors, or whatever goes with their story and should be painted on mat board or cardboard. They will be required to have a least two characters made with a wire skeletal system (which they can use their earlier sketches to reference) and plasticine(clay) covering which is very pliable and durable.
Lastly, after all the backgrounds, props and figures are created, it is time to create the animation!
They will use a digital camera and take 20-30 shots , moving the figures and the scene slightly in each shot in order to created the movement for the final product. The completed animations should be no more than 3 minutes long.
The images will be uploaded onto the computer and compiled using Microsoft Movie Maker to complete the project. Using this program, the images and arranged and shown at the right speed so the characters come to life. Music and dialogue are optional.
This lesson will not only teach them about the anatomy and motion of the figure, but it will allow them to use what they have learned and bring it to life.