Fantastic Pictures

Young historians investigate World War I by watching a short video clip of art created by soldiers. As viewers analyze the pieces a clearer picture of the horrors of war comes to light. 

A picture is worth a thousand words, but political art may be worth even more! After examining examples of political cartoons, murals, and other forms of public art, class members create their own pieces to reflect their ideals and...

Why was the prominent figure of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in medieval paintings commonly painted out of proportion? Discover the deep religious roots connected to European medieval art beginning in the sixth century. This video offers a...

“Humanscape No.65” by Melesia Casas and Ester Hernandez’s “Sun Maid Raisins” launch a study of how works of art can advocate for social change. After examining these two works and discussing the human rights issues raised, class members...

Debates afford our learners the opportunity to become better researchers, critical thinkers, eloquent speakers, and informed participants in our society. If you are planning to host debates in your classroom, try beginning by...

Before picture books and animated videos, there were hand-copied manuscripts whose margins were filled with fantastic images. A short video examines the tradition of illuminating books and considers what some of the more bizarre images...

Students examine the significance of rock art. They discuss and view examples of historical rock art, and create a design on a rock that tells a story using African and American symbols.

Travel through Europe with ten-year-old Teddy Roosevelt in this writing activity, which uses the picture book My Tour of Europe: by Teddy Roosevelt, by Ellen Jackson. After reading the book, readers compare it to passages from The...

"Close study of art can train viewers to study thoroughly, analyze the elements, observe, articulate them succinctly, and formulate questions to address the seeming inconsistencies." Show your young learners how the study of art enhances...

An art form rich in cultural significance and historical ties, gyotaku is the ancient Japanese art of printing fish. Your class will not only learn about the competitive fishing culture of nineteenth century Japan and an important...