Exploring Different Art Styles through Brush Ninja Animations Lesson Plan
Learning Objective
Students will explore different art styles through Brush Ninja animations and create their own animations using the software.
Materials
- Computers or tablets with internet access
- Brush Ninja website
- Art supplies (optional)
Procedure
- Introduce the concept of animation to students, explaining that it is a series of images that appear to move when played in sequence. Show some examples of different types of animation (e.g. hand-drawn, stop-motion, digital) and ask students which ones they are familiar with.
- Explain that today we will be using a digital animation tool called Brush Ninja to explore different art styles.
- Demonstrate how to use Brush Ninja by creating a simple animation together as a class. Use basic shapes and colors to show how movements can be created by changing the position of objects over time.
- Discuss different art styles such as Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, and Pop Art. Show examples of famous artworks from each style and explain what makes them unique.
- Ask students to choose one art style they would like to explore further through an animation project using Brush Ninja.
- Provide time for students to work on their projects individually or in pairs/small groups under your supervision.
- Encourage creativity and experimentation with different techniques such as layering, blending, and using different brush sizes.
- Once completed, have each student or group share their animations with the class.
Assessment
Assess student understanding through observation during the lesson and by reviewing completed projects based on the following criteria:
- Understanding of chosen art style demonstrated in animation
- Creativity/originality
- Technical proficiency with Brush Ninja
Extension
For students who finish early or wish to pursue more advanced projects:
- Create an animated story incorporating characters and plot elements inspired by chosen art style
- Experiment with different backgrounds/sound effects to enhance the animation
- Research and incorporate historical context about chosen art style into an animation project.
← Exploring Color Theory through Brush Ninja AnimationsExploring Poetry: Using Brush Ninja to Create Visual Poems →
How to animate with Brush Ninja
This video teaches the basics of using Brush Ninja
More Arts Lessons
Examples of Brush Ninja in Education
Ss were introduced to animation this week using #BrushNinja….I love their creativity and excitement for learning new skills #proudtobeEP #makersgonnamake @EastPointeElem
Tweeted by Megan WhitsonThird graders @Longdale_Tigers used Brush Ninja to reinforce what they know about food chains. It was a perfect opportunity to review digital safety as we explored this platform.
Tweeted by Jenny ReasonerBrush ninja fun! Introduced kids to this gif maker. They were creative and had fun. Thanks @TechCoachRobles for the lesson.
Tweeted by Pam3rd graders @NISDBeard are becoming digital animators using Brush.Ninja! After reading Grandma and the Great Gourd: A Bengali Folktale, students chose a part of the story to animate. Such a fun way for students to show what they know! WTG, @RobinBartel!
Tweeted by Elizabeth RoblesThanks to Mr. Cocek with HRCE TILT for showing 3 Ardley, Anderson, and 3 Markowski how to use Brushninja. Animation is a TON OF FUN!
Tweeted by Ocean View School












