Learners interpret possible meanings of works of art by analyzing how specific works are created and how they relate to historical and cultural contexts

Students investigate how murals portray cultural expression. They study the history of mural making, explore its symbolism and design a mural of their own.

Fourth graders explore Japanese customs and history. They create their own works that reflect these traditions. They identify and use primary and secondary sources to learn and communicate about the past.

Students explore the concept of symbolism. In this social studies lesson, students examine primary and secondary sources regarding the use of symbols in the past and the impact of symbols in today's culture.

Students discuss George Washington's life and how he became a symbol of this nation. They categorize various images of Washington into the various roles he plays.

Your shoes get a lot of mileage in familiar places. Represent the places you have traveled the most with an art project based on a print of Indian People Wear Shoes and Socks by Juane Quick-to-See Smith. Kids trace their shoes and...

Students create a stele to represent what symbols are the most important to them. In this symbols lesson plan, students learn about Egyptian symbols, and then put their own important symbols into model magic clay according to their size...

Third graders locate the country of Mexico on a map and discuss its relationship to the United States. They examine the Mexican flag and discuss the colors and symbolism used in the flag. They create an original and accurate drawing of...

Sixth graders analyze the Aztec calendar and create their own examples of them. They determine the meaning of the symbols used in the calendars and record their ideas in journals. Students host a parent breakfast for them to observe...

Students explore world culture by conducting an art project in class. In this Native American culture lesson, students identify the types of materials American Indians utilized in their artistic endeavors, specifically clay. Students...

Students view and respond to artwork and demonstrate understanding of different viewpoints about identity. Students then collect images of family members and symbols from magazines that represent their home and workplace, and create...

Students examine a piece of art to find objects and symbols used by the artist. In this visual art lesson, students look at Jaun Quick-to-See Smith's, "Trade Canoe for Don Quixote." They look for symbols and items that show the artists...

Sixth graders paint symbols of their culture after examining painting of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Students study Muslim wedding celebrations. They explore Muslim culture and wedding celebrations around the world. Students discuss vows, symbols, and traditions. They create wedding costumes and reenact part of a wedding ceremony.

First graders investigate the concept of kite making in the culture of China. They design and create their own kites. The purposes of making kites is discussed and the question of a kite's functionality is covered.

Students explore Africa. In this cultural studies instructional activity, students go on safari, create African masks, or have an African party after they have researched the people, geography, and culture of the continent.

Learners examine the processes and beliefs used by different cultures to create works of art. Using the internet, they research the types of arts used by cultures that have been transmitted to future generations. They use recycled...

Students use the internet and other tools to examine the culture of China. In groups, they brainstorm a list of topics they want to know more about and practice writing Chinese letters. They create a collage to show the class what...

Students explore ways people from around the world are like them. They discuss how geography affects the way people live and work and how culture affects a person's day to day life. Students give a presentation over a chosen country to...

Learners discuss the Chinese New Year and the importance of the dragon in Chinese culture. After examining pictures of dragon puppets, students create simple dragon puppets and have their own Chinese New Year parade.

It's time to celebrate Kwanzaa in the classroom! After studying the traditions of the holiday, learners design a menu decorated in the colors and symbols associated with Kwanzaa.

Fourth graders identify flowers as symbols in art forms. They focus on the Victorian era and create their own flower design for use in visual art or literary forms.

How much do you know about the holidays around the world? Second graders put their knowledge to the test with a 14-day lesson about global celebrations. They read informational text, employ KWL charts, and compare and contrast the many...

After a quick study of Native American art, symbolism, and pattern design children make a ceramic vase. They read about the use, production, and design of Native American vases or pots, then use clay to create one of their own. Tip:...