Murals: Heritage on the Walls

Abstract:: In this lesson students investigate the rich cultural tradition of murals in the Latino community. They will read about the painters who began the Muralist movement in 1920s Mexico (David Siqueiros, Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco) and investigate Muralism's resurgence in the United States in the 1970s. Students will examine and compare the social and historical context of these two movements and write about a mural which they have researched and viewed.

Murals: Heritage on the Walls - designing a mural

Abstract:: In this lesson, students will explore the process of designing and painting a mural. They will take into consideration the function of murals as examples of media in public, visual space and create a painting that functions as a public mural in this same, unique way. By working together, students will develop team-building skills and collaborate to create a pictorial, collective voice.

Read the Fine Print

Abstract:: Students explore the physical and psychological effect of stress and tension on human beings. They develop their observing, thinking, writing and teamwork skills by working on a group art project and reporting about it. They learn about the stages of group formation, group dynamics and team member roles that make for effective teams. In the process, they discover how collective action can foster a sense of community support, which can alleviate personal feelings of stress and tension. Note: The literacy activities for the Mechanics unit are based on physical themes that have broad application to our experience in the world concepts of rhythm, balance, spin, gravity, levity, inertia, momentum, friction, stress and tension.

Abstract:: In order to address a variety of learning styles with emphasis upon the tactile learner, students will participate in a class project to construct a wall-sized, three dimensional mural of the setting of the novel, "Where the Lillies Bloom". This project cannot be too large. (An outside corridor wall is suggested.) The massive size of the mural makes the project distinctly different from similar art projects attempted in the past; it and also allows students enough space for all of the details desired in the end result of the mural; and affords enough space for all students in the class to display their work.