Gluing and Securing

Overview

In this 30-minute session, preschool students in New Zealand will focus on securely gluing their images onto a collage base as part of the unit "Collage of Integrity" (Lesson 6 of 8). The lesson is designed with sensory learners in mind, especially autistic students, and incorporates differentiation, dyslexia-friendly supports, and opportunities for extension.

Learning Objectives (Aligned with New Zealand Curriculum Refresh)

The Arts Learning Area (Visual Arts) - Level 1 (Preschool/Years 0-2)

Learning Objective:
Express ideas, experiences, and stories through arts practices.
Develop skills in manipulating materials and tools for visual arts purposes.
Key Competencies Developed:
- Managing self: Students use appropriate tools (glue sticks) and follow instructions.
- Relating to others: Share resources and participate collaboratively.
- Thinking: Apply skills in layering and arranging images creatively.

WALT (We Are Learning To)

Glue images securely onto the collage base.

Success Criteria

All images are firmly attached to the collage base without falling off.
Follow colour-coded glue instructions to support independent use.
Experiment with layering images to create depth and interest (extension).

Differentiation Strategies

Learner Needs	Strategy
Sensory learners (autistic)	Provide glue sticks (less mess, easier grip). Use visual aids and clear routines. Keep noise and stimulation levels low.
Students with dyslexia	Use colour-coded glue instructions and simple visual step-by-step guides to clarify directions.
Diverse fine motor skill levels	Provide adaptive grips on glue sticks or assistive support as needed. Break task into small steps with guided support.
Advanced learners	Encourage experimenting with layering images and composition techniques. Prompt creative decision-making with questions.

Materials Needed

Pre-cut images for the collage (from previous lessons)
Collage base (large paper or board)
Glue sticks (colour-coded handles or labels)
Visual step guides with colour codes for glue usage
Optional: textured paper for layering

Lesson Plan Breakdown (30 minutes)

Time	Activity	Teacher Role/Notes
0–5 mins	Welcome and Recap: Review previous lessons briefly; show the collage base and images ready for gluing.	Use simple language and visual prompts. Check student readiness and sensory comfort.
5–10 mins	Demonstration: Show how to use glue sticks with colour-coded instructions. Model gluing an image securely, including layering images for depth.	Use clear, slow instructions with visual cues and verbal reinforcement. Allow questions.
10–22 mins	Student Work Time: Students glue their images onto their collage bases. Guide those needing help; encourage advanced learners to layer images thoughtfully.	Monitor and support fine motor tasks, reinforce success criteria, manage sensory needs.
22–27 mins	Peer Sharing: Invite students to share their collages and describe how they glued their images.	Facilitate supportive communication and turn-taking. Use sentence stems if helpful.
27–30 mins	Clean Up and Reflect: Organise materials; discuss what went well and what was tricky (using simple, sensory-friendly reflection methods).	Positive reinforcement, brief sensory calming activity if needed. Outline next lesson’s focus.

Assessment (Formative)

Observe secure attachment of images (tactile check).
Note student ability to follow colour-coded glue instructions independently.
Informal teacher notes on engagement, skill application, and peer interaction.
Use visual checks and simple verbal prompts to confirm understanding.

Inclusion and Accessibility

Provide glue sticks with large grips and colour codes to support fine motor and dyslexic students.
Keep environment sensory-friendly: soft lighting, minimal noise, calm seating.
Use visual, verbal, and tactile instructions.
Allow students to work at their own pace.
Encourage alternative methods of expression and communication during peer sharing (e.g., pointing to their work instead of speaking).

Extension Ideas for Advanced Learners

Challenge students to create deliberate overlays with contrasting textures.
Introduce simple concepts of spatial arrangement and discuss why layering changes the look of the collage.
Encourage use of descriptive language (e.g., “I put this image on top because it is shiny”).

Curriculum Links in Detail

Domain	Strand	Relevant Objective or Process
The Arts	Visual Arts	Develop skills in arts practices – manipulating tools and materials to express ideas and stories.
Key Competencies	Managing self	Choose and use resources, tools, and materials responsibly and with increasing independence.
Key Competencies	Relating to others	Collaborate and share materials in a respectful learning environment.
Key Competencies	Thinking	Experiment with ideas and materials to create layered artworks.

This lesson aligns with the principles of The New Zealand Curriculum Refresh by emphasising inclusivity, engagement through sensory-friendly practice, and providing multiple pathways to learning success for diverse preschool students .

Notes for the Teacher

Maintain a calm, predictable structure to assist sensory learners.
Use descriptive, clear spoken language and visual prompts simultaneously.
Praise effort and outcomes equally to build confidence.
Use simple reflective questions that encourage children to notice their own work and experiences.

This plan aims to engage your class effectively while respecting their sensory and learning needs within the national curriculum framework, encouraging creativity, independence, and collaboration for young learners.

Teaching Instructions