This single-course offering will begin with a brief telling of the story of The Giving Tree. Learners discover that The Giving Tree was an old hollow tree where people, traveling between their communities, could stop to rest and have a picnic.  If they were needing food items for their lunch they could look into the hollow of the tree and there they would find items left by other travelers.  The Giving Tree was a place where community members could help each other by leaving food.  They did this out of honesty and respect for each other. We explore the "secret" the tree held.
As the story is being told we will look at the artwork of Lisa Dorion.  Following the story we will discuss the colors, symbols, shapes used in her artwork - particularly the dotted edges and patterns, and the infinity symbol.
We will talk about her use of color and why she may have used the colors she did. We will identify themes of caring and sharing. Learners are invited to participate in the discussion of Lisa Dorion's artwork.  I will ask questions to prompt discussion.  There are only right answers in my classroom!

Following the story, learners will participate in a step-by-step process to create their own artwork.
-Learners draw outline of a tree, one or two people, foreground, sky/clouds, birds, butterflies, dragonflies.
-Learners paint the tree first using tempera paints. As the tree dries, they paint the foreground and sky. When dry add details - infinity symbol, people, nature items.
- When completely dry outline all parts with black marker. Using the end of a paintbrush and/or Qtips add dotted edges and patterns using acrylic paints. Do this carefully and slowly and with intent - plan the patterns before starting a section.

Closing of Lesson
Students complete a reflection using the stem:
The best part about my work is _____
My favorite part where I used techniques that Leah Dorian used in her paintings is _______