Overview:

Rather than looking to the archives of architecture for inspiration, Frank Gehry looks to the world of art for his forms and images. He has kept pace with innovations in building materials and computer-aided design to push his structures to the farthest edges of the definition of what can be called architecture. His designs are challenging and free flowing, and often have a most uncanny way of blending in with even the oldest architectural styles. In this lesson students will simulate the experience of designing buildings that must fit in with existing structures in an imaginary setting. They will determine all the elements that buildings must contain and explore previous styles of architecture in order to make all the decisions necessary to create buildings that fit in with and complement existing styles.

Grade Level:

9-12

Time:

• one class period to brainstorm necessary building elements
• two class periods to research historical styles of architecture
• one class period for design

Subject Matter:

Art, Technology, Architecture

Learning Objectives:

Students will be able to do the following:

• examine all the details that make a building structure function
• identify architectural styles from different periods in history
• gather information from a variety of sources
• make the connection between architectural design and the practical requirements of a particular structure
• see how architectural styles of different periods in history can work together
• understand the many decisions involved in urban planning

National Standards:

MCREL TECHNOLOGY, Level 4, Standard 3
Understands the relationships among science, technology, society, and the individual.

MCREL TECHNOLOGY, Level 4, Standard 6, Benchmark 8
Knows different requirements for structural design (e.g., strength, maintenance, appearance) and that these structures require maintenance.

MCREL TECHNOLOGY, Level 4, Standard 4
Understands the nature of technological design.

MCREL ART CONNECTIONS, Level 4, Standard 1, Benchmark 3
Understands how elements, materials, technologies, artistic processes (e.g., imagination, craftsmanship), and organizational principles (e.g., unity and variety, repetition and contrast) are used in similar and distinctive ways in the various art forms.

MCREL ARTS AND COMMUNICATION, Level 4, Standard 2
Knows and applies appropriate criteria to arts and communication products.

MCREL VISUAL ARTS, Level 4, Standard 3
Knows a range of subject matter, symbols, and potential ideas in the visual arts.

MCREL VISUAL ARTS, Level 4, Standard 4
Understands the visual arts in relation to history and cultures.

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