3rd Graders H.E.L.P. Spread the Word - Shelter Pet Awareness Posters

This lesson is very near and dear to my heart. I am very passionate about education, but when I can use that to help out my local community, especially our little furry friends, it really reinforces why I do what I do. H.E.L.P. (Homes for Endangered and Lost Pets) is a local foster pet organization. A woman from H.E.L.P. came in to speak to the 3rd graders during a small assembly. She discussed why we should think about adoption, why some animals end up in shelters, and why we need to be their voice. The students even got to meet and pet a (hypoallergenic) dog that H.E.L.P. was fostering at the time!

Back in the classroom, we talked about the assembly and I answered any questions they may have not had the chance to ask. I then showed them commercials and ads from TheShelterPetProject.org (Ad Council). We discussed the layout of the posters and their message. We also focused on slogans and came up with some really great ideas. I have to admit, I had a few moments of teary eyes as I saw how excited the kids were getting about helping out our local animals.

I gave the students packets with various "How to Draw" step by step cats and dogs. Students were also allowed to use some collage if they struggled with their drawing (The objective here was to design a strong layout and create a positive and helpful message). We also discussed color theory when it came time to use markers and colored pencil to color their posters. I showed them complimentary colors, monochromatic color schemes, and what colors may not be the best idea for their slogans (i.e. bright yellow on a white background). The kids worked so hard on these and did a fantastic job! H.E.L.P. even hung about 13 posters around Batavia to spread awareness and show off the kids' work!

We were even featured at TribLocal - Batavia!

IL.5.A.3b - Design a project related to contemporary issues (e.g., real-world math, career development, community service) using multiple sources.

IL.25.A.1d - Visual Arts: Identify the elements of line, shape, space, color and texture; the principles of repetition and pattern; and the expressive qualities of mood, emotion and pictorial representation.

IL.29.C.3c - Create simple print and/or non-print media messages in the target language modeled on media examples (e.g., advertisements, posters, television, radio, brochures, websites).

IL.SEL.33C - Contribute to the well-being of one’s school and community.