Look, then try.
Pick two leaves that look different, such as a wide one and a skinny one, or one smooth and one jagged. Make a rubbing of each on the same sheet so you can look at them together. Talk about the edges: are they smooth like a river or bumpy like a saw? Look at the veins: do they run in a straight line or spread like branches? Size, colour and texture all count. There are no wrong answers when you say what you notice.
An adult helps with scissors when cutting out rubbings. Collect fallen leaves from the ground, or pick with permission, and brush off dirt and insects. Wash hands after handling leaves. Nothing you find outside goes in your mouth.
Use a finger, stylus or mouse in each drawing box. Type below it, or ask a grown-up to write your words. Your work stays in this tab. Save before refreshing or leaving.
Choose my pair
Draw your two leaves side by side. Make each one look different from the other.
Same and different
Rub both leaves, then look carefully. Draw or write one thing that is the same and one thing that is different.
Sort my pile
Rub three more leaves, then group all your rubbings: big with big, jagged with jagged. Draw your groups.
Your ideas belong here. There is no score.
What are we learning?
Comparing two things and naming what stays the same and what changes is an early science skill. Describing edges, veins and textures builds a precise vocabulary for looking closely.
Prefer a worksheet?
Open the individual cartoon activity sheet to print or save. Use portrait orientation and fit to page.
Open worksheet to save ↓Try another leaf activity.
How to Make a Leaf RubbingLay a leaf down, rub gently and watch its pattern appear.
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Look Closely at My LeafBecome a leaf detective: the tip, the edge, the veins and the stem.
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Make a Leaf CreatureTurn your rubbings into wings, scales, fur or feathers.
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My Leaf Rubbing ArtFinish with one big picture made from every rubbing you have made.
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