Students in the 2nd grade studied the use of found materials in making art with Amy Deiner (my Spring 2013 student teacher). Amy and the PS 51 second grade artists discussed the art process and discoveries that can be made using found materials such as pinwheels, cardboard, wood pieces, rollers, sponge, paper towel rolls, etc. On a huge surface, students explored materials of their choice, painting with them in various directions. When they completed their exploration, beyond having a masterpiece, students discussed their journey through this process in a very meaningful way.