Grassy creatures

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
Be creative and select appropriate materials
Observe plant requirements for growth
Discover the importance of nurturing and caring

Preparation

Observe plants growing outside 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' such as compost, garden soil, leaves, cotton wool 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 over the sides
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 how long it takes for the creature's grass hair to grow
Photograph each stage of making and growth and use to create an instruction manual or 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 and give to friends as a gift
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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