Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1 / SSS 1)
Term: Third Term
Week: 8
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Painting And Decoration
Curriculum Theme: Trade
Previous Lesson: Greeting Cards: Printed And Handmade Types of Greeting Cards and Card Making Materials.
Topic: GREETING CARDS PRACTICAL
Subject Matter: Leaf print cards, block print cards, found object decoration, card display

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

Define what a greeting card is.
Identify various materials used for making greeting cards.
Describe the processes of creating leaf print, block print, and found object decorated cards.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the creativity involved in making greeting cards.
Develop an interest in using readily available materials for art and craft.
Show patience and attention to detail during practical activities.

Psychomotor Domain:

Create a greeting card using leaf printing techniques.
Produce a greeting card using block printing techniques.
Decorate a greeting card with found objects.
Display their created greeting cards effectively.

Work collaboratively with peers during the practical session.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Cultural and Creative Arts (Senior Secondary).
State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Arts.
Cultural and Creative Arts for Senior Secondary Schools 1 by various authors.

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Examples of finished greeting cards.
Cardboard or card stock.
Leaves of various shapes and sizes.
Wooden or linoleum blocks.
Paints (poster colours, acrylics).
Brushes, sponges, or rollers.
Glue (PVA glue, craft glue).
Found objects (e.g., buttons, beads, fabric scraps, dried flowers, small pebbles).
Scissors.
Newspapers or protective sheets for work surfaces.

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils to develop practical skills in creating decorative items using simple materials. It enables them to express creativity and understand how art can be used for personal expression and gift-giving, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils have basic knowledge of colour mixing, simple drawing, and the use of art materials. They may have also had previous lessons on basic printmaking techniques.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

GREETING CARDS PRACTICAL

What is a Greeting Card?

A greeting card is an illustrated piece of card or high-quality paper featuring a message of friendship or other sentiment. It is usually given on special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, or to convey thanks or other feelings.

Materials for Making Greeting Cards

The following are common materials used for making greeting cards:

Cardboard or card stock
Paints (poster colours, acrylics)
Brushes, sponges, or rollers
Glue
Scissors
Various decorative items like leaves, blocks, buttons, beads, fabric scraps, dried flowers, etc.

Types of Greeting Cards (Practical Focus)

Leaf Print Cards

Leaf print cards are created by transferring the natural patterns and textures of leaves onto paper using paint. This technique produces unique and organic designs.

The steps to create leaf print cards are:

Select fresh leaves with prominent veins.
Apply a thin layer of paint evenly onto one side of the leaf (usually the veined side).
Carefully press the painted side of the leaf onto the card stock.
Gently lift the leaf to reveal the print.
Allow the paint to dry and add any other desired decorations.

Block Print Cards

Block print cards involve carving a design into a material like wood or linoleum, inking the raised surface, and then pressing it onto paper to create a repeated image.

The steps to create block print cards are:

Prepare a block (e.g., a small piece of wood or linoleum) with a simple design.
Apply paint evenly onto the raised surface of the block using a brush or roller.
Carefully press the inked block firmly onto the card stock.
Lift the block to reveal the print.
Repeat the process to create patterns or multiple prints, and allow to dry.

Found Object Decoration

Found object decoration involves attaching various everyday items or natural elements to a card to create texture and visual interest. This method encourages creativity and resourcefulness.

The steps to decorate cards with found objects are:

Gather various small found objects such as buttons, beads, fabric scraps, dried flowers, or small pebbles.
Plan a design or arrangement for the objects on the card.
Apply glue to the back of each object.
Carefully place and press the objects onto the card.
Allow the glue to dry completely before handling.

Displaying Greeting Cards

The following are ways to display created greeting cards:

Place them on a display board using pins or tape.
Arrange them on a table or shelf.
Hang them on a string or line using small clips.
Present them neatly in a portfolio or folder.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids, Practical/Activity-based learning

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them if they have ever received or given a greeting card. The teacher shows examples of different types of greeting cards and asks pupils about their purpose.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and observe the examples.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the topic and recall prior experiences with greeting cards.

Step 2: Explanation of Greeting Cards and Materials

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Identification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines what a greeting card is and discusses its importance. The teacher then introduces the various materials that can be used for making cards, showing actual examples of leaves, blocks, paints, and found objects.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively, identify the materials, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the definition and purpose of greeting cards and identify necessary materials.

Step 3: Demonstration of Leaf Printing

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modelling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the process of making a leaf print card step-by-step, showing how to apply paint to a leaf and press it onto the card stock. The teacher provides clear instructions and safety tips.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully and ask questions about the technique.
Learning Point: Pupils learn the practical steps for creating leaf print cards.

Step 4: Demonstration of Block Printing and Found Object Decoration

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modelling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly demonstrates how to use a block for printing and how to attach found objects to a card, explaining the different textures and effects achievable with each method.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils pay attention to the demonstrations.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the basic techniques for block printing and found object decoration.

Step 5: Practical Activity – Card Making

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Practical Application/Supervision
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher distributes materials to the pupils and guides them as they create their own greeting cards using leaf printing, block printing, or found object decoration. The teacher moves around to provide individual assistance and encouragement.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils engage in the practical activity, creating their greeting cards based on the demonstrations and instructions.
Learning Point: Pupils apply the learned techniques to create their own greeting cards.

Step 6: Card Display

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Presentation/Organisation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher instructs pupils to display their completed or semi-completed greeting cards neatly on a designated board or table. The teacher encourages pupils to appreciate each other’s work.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils display their cards and observe the creations of their classmates.
Learning Point: Pupils learn to present their work and appreciate diverse artistic expressions.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

Define a greeting card.
Mention three materials used in making greeting cards.
Describe the process of making a leaf print card.
State two ways to display finished greeting cards.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 0 minutes
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarises the key points of the lesson, reiterating the importance of creativity and resourcefulness in making greeting cards. The teacher encourages pupils to continue practicing at home.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and note down any homework or final instructions.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are encouraged to continue practicing.

Lesson Keywords

Greeting Card – An illustrated piece of card or paper carrying a message, often given on special occasions.
Leaf Print – An art technique where the pattern of a leaf is transferred onto a surface using paint.
Block Print – A printing method where a carved design on a block is inked and pressed onto paper.
Found Object – Everyday items or natural materials collected and used in art without specific artistic intent.
Decoration – The act of adding ornamental features to something to make it more attractive.
Display – To arrange or exhibit something for public view.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher can challenge them to create more complex designs or combine different techniques on one card. For those who need more support, the teacher can provide simpler leaf shapes, pre-cut card stock, or offer direct guidance on paint application and pressing techniques.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure all materials are prepared and easily accessible before the lesson begins. Emphasise safety when using scissors and handling paints. Encourage pupils to explore different leaf types and found objects for varied textures and effects. Provide positive feedback to build pupils’ confidence in their artistic abilities.