Sun Catchers & Letter S
Level 2 deepens literacy and inquiry.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Explain summer concepts
- write letter S words independently.
Instructions
Materials
- Clear contact paper cut into circles or squares
- Pre-cut tissue paper shapes in warm summer colours like yellow, orange, and red
- Cardstock templates of the letter S
- Yarn or ribbon for hanging
- Hole punch
- Masking tape
Learning Objectives
- Identify the visual shape and form of the letter S.
- Associate the letter S with the theme of Summer and Sun.
- Practise fine motor skills by placing tissue paper within a defined boundary.
- Demonstrate the ability to follow a multi-step creative process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and introduce the letter S by tracing it in the air with your finger.
2. Ask the children to brainstorm words that start with S, specifically focusing on summer-themed words like sun, sand, and sea.
3. Tape a piece of contact paper to each child's desk with the sticky side facing up.
4. Provide each child with a cardstock outline of the letter S.
5. Instruct the children to place their S template onto the sticky contact paper.
6. Invite the children to fill the remaining sticky space around their letter with the provided tissue paper shapes.
7. Once the space is full, help the children peel off the cardstock S to reveal the negative space shape on the sticky paper.
8. Seal the artwork with a second piece of contact paper or mount it on a sturdy frame.
9. Use the hole punch to create a hole at the top and thread the yarn through for hanging.
10. Hang the finished sun catchers in a sunny window to observe how the light passes through the colours.
Educator Tip
If a student struggles with the concept of negative space, allow them to decorate the letter S itself with the tissue paper instead of the background. This ensures all children feel successful while still engaging with the letter form.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can correctly name the letter S when prompted.
- Note the child's ability to manipulate small tissue paper pieces using a pincer grasp.
- Confirm the child can identify at least one summer word starting with the letter S during the group discussion.
Assessment
Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe reasoning, writing, collaboration.