The children took part in two nature walks around the school grounds, providing opportunities to explore and learn from the natural environment.
During one walk, the children collected autumn leaves to use later in class for leaf printing activities. On another walk, they explored different textures found in nature, creating texture rubbings and observing the patterns on leaves, bark, and other natural materials.
The children also learned about animal habitats and discussed how pollution can affect wildlife and natural environments. During the walk, they helped collect litter from the school grounds, encouraging a sense of responsibility and care for the environment. We later continued this discussion in class, linking our learning to Geography, Science, and SPHE.
Using school tablets, the children also photographed various leaves and trees, supporting their observations and discussions of plant life.
Back in the classroom, the children explored texture and pattern in nature through activities such as rubbing, printing, cutting, and glueing. They noticed patterns, symmetry, and fine details in the natural materials while experimenting with contrasting colours in their artwork.
This learning experience connected several areas of the curriculum, including Visual Arts, Science (plant study), Geography, SPHE, and Maths (shape and pattern recognition), while encouraging close observation, creativity, and fine motor development.
