19th Century Art Lesson Plans

Students discuss the lines, shapes, and patterns used to decorate a 19th century chandelier. In this visual arts lesson, students examine the lines and identify the patterns on the chandelier. Students create a papier-mache sculpture influenced by a 19th century chandelier.

Students use video and the Internet to research the life of Nellie Bly, a famous female reporter from the 19th century. They research a writer and present their information to the class in the style of a news reporter.

Students are introduced to women authors during the 19th century. In groups, they read about the criticism they faced during this time period by the public and literary community. Using the internet, they research one author to discover her characteristics and connections among other writers.

Students study 19th century dance. In this arts lesson, students explore primary sources available from the Library of Congress that feature a variety of dances popular in the 19th century. 

Students analyze 19th century cartoons on segregation. In this primary source lesson students examine primary source documents and identify the elements of a cartoon then create their own based on The Outsiders by SE Hinton.

Students explore how opportunities for civic participation expanded during the first half of the 19th century including nominating conventions, expansion of the franchise and active campaigning. They use research materials, a graphic organizer, short answer responses and cooperative learning.

Learners discuss the subject and meaning of examples of visual art. They analyze various paintings found on the Metropolitan Museum of Art website, answer discussion questions, complete online interactive activities, and write an essay.

Students research and examine primary sources concerning the Washington Territory. In this Native American removal activity, students view portrait images created by Gustav Sohon. Students then read several biographies that correspond to Sohon's portraits of notable Native Americans of the 19th century.

Through analyzing the elements of a symphony for rhythm, patterns, color, and texture, middle schoolers apply the elements of music to visual art. Learners discuss poetry and art, and write a reflection showing the similarities of these forms.

Research characteristics of slavery during the 19th and 21st century.  By reading Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, students focus on living conditions, social acceptance, jobs, and treatment of both 19th and 21st century slaves.  They will write an expository paper describing 19th century slavery and create a PowerPoint presentation or poster board display descibing 21st century slavery.