Observing and sketching kōwhai trees

Tamariki at Silverdale Normal School focused on observing the different parts of a kōwhai tree – bark, seed pods, flowers and leaves.

Students were instructed to sketch what they could actually see rather than what they thought they could see. This activity challenged students’ perceptions of what they thought a tree, flower or leaf looks like. It broadened their understanding of the diversity within the simple concept of a tree.