Ms.

Bolintineanu
Rainbow Fish Painting Lesson Plan
Cielo Azul Elementary School
Second Grade

Lesson Overview
After reading the story The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister, students will learn how to draw
and paint an array of colorful fish using resist technique and warm and cool color
relationships.

Objectives:
Students will:
1. Listen to the story The Rainbow Fish read by teacher
2. Practice drawing various types of fish on draft paper or in sketch books
3. Learn about resist technique and how it can be used to achieve an artistic effect
4. Recognize and explain the difference between warm and cool color relationships

New Mexico Visual Arts Standards Addressed (2-3):

1.1A.2

Discuss how different elements of art impact images.

1.1B.1

Demonstrate increased skill with materials, tools and techniques.

1.1C.1-2

Take care of classroom art materials. Answer questions about safety.

4.4B.1

Discuss and reflect about the process of creating art.

6.6A.1

Explore similarities and differences among art works from various cultures or periods of
history.

Preparation:
Samples, handouts, and other guides
Samples of fish to draw (cartoon style)

Art Supplies and Materials
Thick white paper
White oil pastel (OR white gloss medium)
Brushes
Watercolor paint
Salt
Silver hologram paper or silver paint (optional)

Vocabulary:
Texture: the feel of a surface; to give a surface a rough or raised texture
Resist: the process of using wax or oil to draw on a surface then add water based
paint to the surrounding area. The water-based absorbs into the paper while the
wax or oil resists the color.
Warm and Cool Color Schemes: combinations of colors which appear warm or cool to
the eye- red, orange, and yellow or green, blue, and purple

Lesson Overview
Day 1: The students will begin the lesson with Ms. B reading The Rainbow Fish. Afterwards
teacher and students will discuss the book together before practicing drawing fish
together.

Day 2: Ms. B will demonstrate oil pastel resist and watercolor and salt technique on paper
and discuss warm/cool color schemes. Students will get a chance to practice the technique
on small pieces of paper before they receive larger paper for their fish. Students will show
Ms. B their practice paper and trade it in for their final paper. Students will be
encouraged to create an environment for their fish. While painting, Ms. B will walk around
and sprinkle the fish with salt. Students must put their first and last name on their
drawing/painting before placing it on the drying rack.

Day 3: If necessary, students will use this additional day to finish their paintings. If supplies
are available, students will add a silver scale to their fish using holographic paper or silver
paint. Afterward, an activity of Ms. Bs choosing will be available for students who have
finished their paintings.