Resource Library

Students examine Hispanic folk traditions, the influences of the natural environment on the folklife and folk arts of the Rio Grande region and experience Hispanic cultural traditions by participating in related activities. While not designed for a specific grade level, content can be adapted to various levels.

This resource introduces students to the basic principles of landscape painting. Students will also learn geography skills to gain appreciation for the physical characteristics of different regions of the United States. It also explores the way that Americans felt about their growing nation during the period of westward expansion until the end of the nineteenth century.

The "e²"-television series from PBS focused on three main topics: transportation, energy and design. Resources for teachers include video from the episodes with pre- and post-viewing discussion questions. There are also extension activities to help students explore each topic more deeply by conducting their own research and applying their knowledge to real-world situations.

The relationship between man and nature has been represented in many ways and in many cultural forms. Visual art, novels, films and songs all pose questions and assert opinions about the relationships between humans and animals, environmental responsibility and mankind’s place in the landscape. These lessons explore representations of the natural world made by contemporary artists in a variety of media including drawing, watercolor, photography and sculpture.

Artists find both materials and inspiration in their natural environment. Materials are collected, combined and transformed through the creativity of human hands. This educational guide delves into the relationship between artists and their environment, examining how artists reflect upon and respond to nature and how deep connections with the natural surroundings can inspire them to create beautiful objects.

In this lesson students will learn that there is more to music than the musicians; the quality and craftsmanship of the instruments are also important. After examining the craftsmanship of high-quality acoustic guitars and discussing the importance of behind the scenes music careers, students will turn their attention to how instrument production affects local and international economies and ecologies.

Fractals are found extensively in nature, from tiny snowflakes to towering mountains. Because of this, fractal geometry has many practical applications. Geologists can model the meandering paths of rivers. Botanists can model the branching patterns of trees. In this activity, students will investigate fractals, learn how fractals can be used to determine the length of a coastline and explore the expression of mathematical principles in art.

Environmental themes can be included in lessons about World War II. The United States conducted a significant campaign to inform its citizens about the need for conservation during war time. Not only were these efforts meant to help with the war effort, but also teach about the necessity of conservation. Some examples of these posters are found below, and many more can be found on a variety of websites through a simple web search. Art classes can try and recreate these styles with modern environmental messages.