The Kennedy Center has a great definition for integrating the arts:
Did you notice that the above definition specifies how integration CONNECTS an art form with another subject area and meets objectives in BOTH. So what does that mean?
The easiest way I can explain it is to think about skills that you want students to learn in a subject area. Then, think about what art form you feel comfortable teaching (especially if you are a beginner at this) and best assists you meeting those goals. Next, look deeply at the art form. Research it’s elements and standards. Find an element or a standard that matches what you’re planning on doing.
EXAMPLE
Math Skill: Measurement (inches, cm, etc.)
Visual Art Element: Line (website on visual arts elements)
Lesson: Students draw a series of random lines. Students use ruler to measure and label length of the lines. (Curvy lines are okay too. Yarn can be used to measure the line and lined up straight on a ruler to see the length of the curvy line.) Students’ attention is drawn to the various types of lines:
- Curved lines
- Horizontal lines
- Vertical lines
- Jagged lines
Students are then shown artwork and analyze or (notice deeply) the lines used to create it. Below is a sample of artwork you could use:
After you have identified the type of line used in the artwork, students can now create their own. You can give them certain lengths of lines that you want them to use in their creation. You could also have them include certain shapes made by lines of specified lengths.
This is a simple integrated arts lesson that teaches a math and an arts standard. Follow my blog to see more posts showing integrated arts lessons.
(This lesson started with the math standard first but you can create a lesson the other way around by picking the arts standard first.)
Thanks for reading! 😀
-Marly
integrate the arts 