Through these activities students will explore various definitions about what constitutes art and how other periods in art history may have framed these definitions, develop their own ideas of what constitutes art, and use representative works of art to support their own definitions of art.
For Educators
Andy Warhol: Lesson Overview
Ralph Ellison: Lesson Overview
In this lesson plan, students will use similar tools to explore the theme of invisibility in the book, in their own lives, and in their communities.
Vaudeville: On with the Show: Lesson Overview
The activity is divided into several parts: 1) observing their family to come up with material for the skit, 2) writing a script for the skit, and 3) staging the skit.
Ella Fitzgerald: Something to Live For: Lesson Overview
In this lesson plan, students will learn the basics of jazz appreciation. They will hear performances by various artists including Ella Fitzgerald, learning about jazz styles, the roots of jazz, and the characteristics of different types of jazz.
Lon Chaney: Three Faces of Lon Chaney: Lesson Overview
In this lesson, students will watch the Lon Chaney episode of American Masters, read chapters from three original books on which Chaney's films were based, and use a reading strategy called Reader's Theater to adapt each chapter into a script.
The Sidney Poitier High School: Lesson Overview
In this lesson, students will prepare a mock-dedication for "The Sidney Poitier School." using a selection of reading strategies - Choral Reading, Guided Reading and Reader's Theater - to research the information before putting together their presentations.
Walter Cronkite: Witness to History: Lesson Overview
Much has changed since Walter Cronkite signed off in 1981. In order to examine how news reporting has evolved in the 21st century, students will explore the state and purpose of media today, research the history of the media and learn how to write using the journalistic style.
Judy Garland: By Myself: Lesson Overview
Judy Garland was one of America's most famous child stars. In this lesson students will explore Garland's life as they investigate a variety of musical, historical, and artistic resources
Designing Another Juilliard: Lesson Overview
Students will understand the school's vision and commitment to excellence. Using what they have learned, students will then create their own fictional top-notch school promoting excellence in a discipline of their choice.





