Lesson Plan: "Leaf Man" by Lois Ehlert

Object of lesson: get kids outside in the fall to enjoy the natural beauty of falling leaves.

 Target age group: 5-9

1. Read "Leaf Man" by Lois Ehlert.
2. Have kids go outside and collect materials to create their own leaf men. Compare some of the more common leaves and explain what species they are from. For example, show a maple leaf and an oak leaf. Explain how to tell the difference between different types of leaves.
   
3. Make leaf prints. Place leaves under a sheet of paper on top of a smooth surface. Rub the paper with crayons, making sure that the leaf doesn’t slide around. This activity can be done inside or out, depending on the weather.
4. Go inside and make leaf men. You will need tacky glue and construction paper or cardboard. Markers, googly eyes, and glitter may make it more interesting for kids. Glue leaves on top of the paper or cardboard in the shape of people or animals.