Interactive Color Wheel Lesson

I was looking for a way to teach my 6th grade art students how to mix colors and create their own color wheel without using the old-fashioned (and somewhat boring) color wheel model. Unfortunately, my web search turned up few results. That's when I came up with the idea for a moveable and interactive color wheel that students could construct themselves.

This is a great project for those kinesthetic learners who like to keep their hands busy! I created my own handout that could be printed off on regular or card stock paper. The handout includes all 12 colors on the color wheel (Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary). The project involves students coloring in each color card using colored pencils, crayons, paint, etc. Then students cut out the cards, hole punch in the designated circle, and secure them together using a brass brad or string. The final product is a color wheel that folds out like a fan and can be arranged into the traditional color wheel layout. Each card is labeled with it's color category and color name. This is a great tool for students when using color in their following projects. I've found it very handy for when students are struggling to choose a color scheme. It was also a great project for Special Ed learners to work on cutting/hole punching skills while also learning to mix the different colors. The lesson only takes two 50-minute class periods and students really enjoy "playing" with their color wheels.

I've included the interactive color wheel handout (print as much as you want!), lesson plans, rubric, and example photos for sale. Check it out in my TeachersPayTeachers online store.

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The interactive color wheel can help students see colors side by side while choosing color scheme.

The color wheel folds up small and neat. Great for classrooms with limited storage space!

The interactive color wheel can be folded out in a variety of ways. Fold it out like a circle, fan, or by selecting certain colors. For example, students can fold out just the primary colors.