Discusses an art project in which sixth grade students design alphabets by transforming the shapes of the letters into new designs that are still recognizable. Explains that students brainstorm ideas for their own lettering style. (CMK)

Describes felting as the process of making felt using sheep's wool from fibers without weaving or knitting. Explains that teachers can incorporate felting into a lesson exploring the background behind this process, as an extension of collage or textile arts, as a means to studying abstract art, or in a fashion design unit. (CMK)

Presents a weaving project for sixth grade that employs weaving in layers with octagonal mat boards, instead of the traditional round board. Discusses the process, providing a list of 12 steps, diagrams, and learning objectives. (CMK)

Presents an activity with fifth-grade students called "crazy hat portraits" that is the end product of a sequence of lessons. Describes the beginning lessons and lists what the students learn and the time and materials needed for the assignment. (CMK)

Presents an art project where fifth-grade students painted murals of windows in the boys and girls school restrooms. States that they used a technique called "trompe l'oeil" that uses shadows and perspective to achieve realism that tricks the eye. (CMK)

Describes an art project in which fifth-grade students create abstracts and collages after exploring artwork of various artists. Explains that this project is perfect as a final activity for the school year and also helps to use up any leftover paint supplies. (CMK)

Describes an art lesson for fifth- and sixth-grade students where they learn about the cold colors on the color wheel and apply that knowledge as they create a picture of a snowstorm. Explains that the students depict a snowstorm by layering the colors and drawings of snowflakes to make a three-dimensional effect. (CMK)

Presents an activity for fourth- and fifth-grade students in which they create a realistic or imaginative insect of their choice following a brief slide presentation on insects. Explains that the activity combines the use of line, shape, and color and takes two 40-minute class periods. (CMK)

Describes an art project for fourth-grade students where they created their own three-dimensional sculptures or structures using recycled computer disks and CD-ROM's. Explains that the students were assessed on their creativity, sturdiness of their structures, and overall design. States that the use of ordinary materials made the lesson more…

Offers an interdisciplinary lesson for fifth-grade students where they study the history of the Puritans and the Mayflower while creating a picture of the Mayflower. Uses the "wet on wet" water color wash technique for the background and describes the process for creating a collage of the Mayflower. (CMK)

Provides background information on Rene Magritte and his work. Offers an activity in which elementary and middle school students can learn about Magritte's sky and silhouette series of painted wine bottles. Explains that the lesson should be used when students are learning about poetry in language arts classes. (CMK)