Make a growing grassy creature

Activity

Create a simple character with growing grassy hair, plan its care programme - not forgetting a trip to the barbers!

Learning objectives

Writing instructions for a real purpose
Use expanded noun phrases and a wide range of conjunctions
Be creative and select materials
Observe plant requirements for growth
The importance of nurturing and caring

Preparation

Observe plants growing in the surrounding area and identify what is required for health.
Ask for donations of old tights - they don't need to be new as 'faults' will add character!

Tights should be cut up into sections ready for making your grassy creatures. Tie a knot in one end of middle sections of tights.

Equipment

Small sections of nylon tights
Grass seed
Wood shavings
Felt or other materials to create features
Pipecleaners
Glue

Points to consider

Offer a selection of coloured tights for diversity.

Choose different 'growing materials' and assess which is best for a grass creature.

Step by step

Choose a section of nylon tights.
For ease of filling, place inside a suitable pot and stretch open.
Put in a few tablespoons of grass seed.
Use hands to 'stuff' the stocking with wood shavings, compost or any chosen growing material.
Tie a knot in the open end.
Mould into desired shape with hands.
Create a character by sticking on features. Use materials like felt, pipecleaners googly eyes, etc.

Next steps

Soak the grass creature, taking care not to get water on the face.
Stand in a sunny place, in a pot or tray.
Keep damp with frequent watering.
Keep a growing diary to see which creature's grass hair germinates first.
Photograph each stage of making and growth for use in creating an instruction manual and care guide.
When the hair has grown you can become a hairdresser!

Hints & tips

Create a different creature by placing it horizontally to grow. Instead of putting grass seed into the 'toe' of the stocking, poke it into one side.
Prepare the grass creatures in advance for sale as an enterprise venture.
Design a box and write a 'care guide' as part of the package.
To test the requirements for growth devise an experiment restricting light, water and warmth.

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