SE 2.05Color Gradation: Mixing Shades
The child mixes paint to make a series of shades and matches mixed colors to the Color Box 3 tablets.
Age 4½–6Work 5 of 5 in Visual — Color
Presentation
- 1
Set out the materials and the seven Color Box 3 tablets of the chosen color, graded.
- 2
Put a small amount of paint in the first well; add one drop of white to the second, two to the third, and continue.
- 3
Stir each well and look at the change.
- 4
Paint one square on the paper strip from each well in order.
- 5
When dry, place the painted strip beside the graded tablets and compare.
- 6
Invite the child to make their own strip.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Make a strip adding black instead of white.
- Mix two primary colors to make a secondary color, then grade it.
- Match a Color Box 3 tablet by mixing paint until the shade is the same.
Control of error
The graded Color Box 3 tablets placed next to the painted strip show whether each shade is in order.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Produces a strip in which each shade is lighter than the last
- Explains that adding white makes a color lighter
- Matches a tablet by mixing