Elementary Art & Science Curriculum

Elementary Art & Science Curriculum

The fundamental idea behind this curriculum is that art and science are two distinct but related ways of understanding the world. Both are based in perception, and involve observation and abstraction. In our projects we tried to combine visual and scientific thinking, emphasizing understanding rather than content and teaching skills rather than facts. We thought where skills from both disciplines could be brought together, there would be more tools at the children’s disposal for problem solving.

Our handbook is designed for grades 3-5. Wherever possible, the projects included have been designed to build upon one another so the children can bring the skills learned in previous lessons to the next one. In addition to basing our projects on the three major categories of Physical, Life, and Earth science, we have included a fourth category, Community and Self. These projects were included because we wanted the children to see themselves in relation to the world they are exploring; and because we believe that these activities can be part pf their growth and development as unique individuals and as valuable members of their community

Janie Paul, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor, University of Michigan Stamps School of Art & Design

DOWNLOAD INDIVIDUAL LESSON PLANS FROM THE CURRICULUM GUIDE