Integrating Art into the Curriculum
by Minoti S., Primary School Teacher
Minoti S., center, with her students
Integrating art with the curriculum and getting children interested in science through art is challenging but equally rewarding. One particular module I explored with the kids is learning about animals and storytelling through art. At the beginning of the class, I found it challenging to manage the class as primary school children are sometimes reluctant to share their work, especially when it is creative work. But as the children got used to creating art pieces as a part of the class and sharing that with the rest of their classmates, I found the children becoming more engaged and enthusiastic about it. In the process, they were also learning new words from experience (such as layering, exploring, close observation, crumpling, experimenting). They were excited to be introduced to new vocabulary in the class.
One of the things I learned in the Art Sparks workshop that I implemented in class was to reduce children's dependence on erasers. Initially, the children were reluctant not to use erasers, but it has become their habit to draw and write with purpose and reason in time. They stopped overwriting when it was not necessary. They see value in not wasting materials.
Through these exercises with my children, I have understood that we can teach life skills through art. When I started this lesson, I felt it would be challenging for my children (8-9 yrs old) to replicate an animal's picture. However, the children could do it with the proper guidance bolstered by a well-organized lesson plan.
Children used a magnifying glass to clearly see the original image's details, patterns, and textures. It was adorable to see them pretending to be scientists while using the magnifying glass. At the end of the session, they displayed their "Hybrid Animal" in the classroom and showcased their work to others. Learning through art has helped my children enjoy their learning and has helped them see the importance of learning with total concentration.
