Toothpick Structures

Minnesota 6-8 Visual Art Standards
Used in this Lesson

  • 1. Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of the arts area.
  • 1A. Analyze how the elements of visual art including color, line, shape, value, form, texture and space are used in the creation of, presentation of, or response to visual artworks.

  • 1b. Analyze how the principles of visual art, such as repetition, pattern, emphasis, contrast and balance are used in the creation, presentation of, or response to visual artworks.

  • 1c. Describe characteristics of Western and non- Western styles, movements and genres in art.

  • 2. Demonstrate knowledge and use of the technical skills of the art form, integrating technology when applicable.
  • 2a. Demonstrate the characteristics of the tools, materials and techniques of various two-and-three- dimensional media for intentional effects in original artworks.

  • 3. Demonstrate understanding of the personal, social, cultural and historical contexts that influence the arts areas.
  • 3a. Compare and contrast the connections among visual artworks, their purposes, and their personal, social, cultural and historical contexts, including the contributions of Minnesota American Indian tribes and communities.

  • 3b. Analyze the meanings and functions of visual art.
  • 4. Create or make in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 4a. Create original two- and-three-dimensional artworks in a variety of artistic contexts.
  • 4b. Revise artworks based on the feedback of others and self-reflection and artistic intent.
  • 4c. Develop an artistic statement, including how audience and occasion influence creative choices.
  • 5. Perform or present in a variety of contexts in the arts area using the artistic foundations.
  • 5a. Assemble and prepare personal artworks for public exhibition.
  • 5b.Revise a presentation based on the feedback of others, self-reflection and artistic intent.
  • 5c. Develop an artistic intent, including how audience and occasion impact presentation choices.
  • 6. Respond to or critique a variety of creations or performances using the artistic foundations.
  • 6a. Analyze and interpret a variety of visual artworks using established criteria.

    • Additional Tie-ins

  • Sign Painting
  • Card Making
  • Consistent pencil shading
    • Students are to use toothpicks to create a house or building of their choosing. It might be fun to make a castle or pioneer fort with a cabin.

    The teacher demonstrates how to use minimal amount of glue to adhere toothpicks to each other. Students might want to make a row of toothpicks on a paper towel and let it dry to form a wall. Then the next day they can use those walls on their castle or house or tropical hut.

    This is a multi-day project so students should keep adding to their project as time permits. Add another roof or gable to their house. Add another turret to the castle, make a garage for the family car, etc.

    Be sure to include details like window frames, doors, railings, chimneys, or anything else you can think of. Some examples are shown below.


    Evaluation:
    1 point-- Freestanding
    2 points -- no larger than 9 inches in one dimension
    3 points -- Quality/Workmanship
    4 points -- Details included.
    10 points total


    Structures above clockwise from top: Jenny G., Addy D. and Emma W

    Tent above by Callie B.