The push for academic electives has grown over the years for many reasons. The pressure for high test scores has forced schools to focus on literacy and core content areas. The competition for entrance to four-year universities has grown, too. However, in the race to improve academic offerings and raise test scores, some schools have neglected to…

In painting and drawing classes, it is typical to ask students to work directly from a master. It is one way to study composition techniques, and to become familiar with classical style firsthand. In museums, easels are set up as artists work, not in an attempt to copy or plagiarize, but in an attempt to be part of history by participating in it.…

A student sketchbook is not a new idea. However, the appropriate application and assessment capabilities of the sketchbook are often overlooked. Historically, artists were trained via copying the works of master painters and draftsmen. In the same tradition, the author has infused the art curriculum with sketchbook copying exercises to improve…

In times past art instruction for young children was integrated with other subject matters. Integration provides more meaningful experiences than can be achieved through separate study of narrowly defined subjects. (RM)

The life of the sculptor Henry Moore is briefly discussed and characteristics of his sculpture are described. Also included are lists of recommended films and books dealing with Moore, a student's guide to looking at sculpture, and sculpture activities for secondary students. (RM)

In this article, the author describes an interdisciplinary and interactive lesson --"Meet the Artist"--that not only is a great way to introduce elementary school students to art history, but also encompasses writing, research, computer skills and the creation of art.

Discusses the life and paintings of Vincent van Gogh, focusing on "The Road Meanders," and describes how to teach students through the painting (e.g., analyzing colors, discussing feelings it evokes, and writing poems that speak to the people in the painting). A copy of the painting is included. (SM)

Feels education has neglected the visual and creative parts of the self accessible through art. Offers a rationale for having K-12 students draw for 30 minutes daily following structured visual exercises to strengthen skills in seeing, remembering, and connecting. Offers a critique of Mortimer Adler's Paideia Proposal. (DMM)

Claims that contemporary artists in Western society are obsessed with their careers and fail to approach art as total human beings. Cites three instances in which the latter has happened. Recognizes the experiential nature of learning in studio art and argues that artists/teachers are obligated to ground students' art experiences in praxis. (KM)

Traces the development of National Endowment for the Arts education policy and relates these trends to the conversion of art activity into entertainment. Points out that large budgets and increased activity in programs do not guarantee artistic achievement with permanent value. Urges interested persons to support the ideals of art. (KO)

This lesson plan for teaching students about the epic poem of India, the "Ramayana," encompasses literary, artistic, and moral themes. The lesson plan states that: (1) students are told the story; (2) students illustrate a part of the story; and (3) students write the moral lessons to be derived from the "Ramayana." The lesson…

Argues that theater students must be encouraged to keep competition in perspective. Points out that too often program growth and support are dependent upon the number of honors that participants receive. Emphasizes that competition should be engaged in for its positive learning potential or should be abandoned as a student activity. (KO)

In this anthology the issues related to the fine arts (music, theater, visual arts) in the elementary secondary curriculum are examined. The fifteen articles, ranging in length from one to seven pages, are followed by a biographical page briefly identifying the contributors. The articles are: "What's It All About?" (Frederick B. Tuttle, Jr.);…

Outlines the life of Henri Matisse and how he created his paper cut-outs, which were reproduced in a book. Discusses the importance of artists' books. Suggests some creative activities for all grades in book making and paper cut-outs that could be worked in conjunction with a language arts program. (KM)

Argues for the necessity of identifying and recruiting art education teachers who will empower their students. Stresses that persons of this sort will be teachers who know art not just artists who teach. Identifies systemic and personnel changes which are necessary for increased assimilation of the arts into schools. (KO)