school homework art

Assignments

Since 2013, the art assignment has been gathering assignments from a wide range of artists, each commissioned to create a prompt based on their own way of working. you don’t need to have special skills or training in order to do them, and the only materials you’ll need are ones you probably already have or can source for free., an open resource for all, these prompts can be classroom activities or creative exercises to call upon when you are stuck, bored, or in need of inspiration. they can spur collaborative projects between you and family and friends, or play a role in the evolution of your own artistic practice. these assignments are intended as springboards for action, and we encourage you to interpret and adapt them as you see fit., if you’d like to share what you make in response, please tag us or post to instagram with #youareanartist..

Cécile McLorin Salvant

Odili Donald Odita

JooYoung Choi

Jamal Cyrus

Mariam Ghani + Erin Ellen Kelly

Peter Liversidge

The Guerrilla Girls

Tschabalala Self

Pablo Helguera

Hugo Crosthwaite

Ghana Think Tank

Jesse Sugarmann

Hope Ginsburg

Sonya Clark

Maria Gaspar

Assaf Evron

Molly Springfield

David Rathman

Paula McCartney

Jonathan Nesci

Diana Shpungin

Carolina Borja Amy Toscani

Nathaniel Russell

Michelle Grabner

J. Morgan Puett

Lenka Clayton

MADE SOMETHING AND WANT TO SHARE IT? POST TO INSTAGRAM WITH #YOUAREANARTIST

Home    about   assignments   faq, episodes:  assignments    art cooking   special topics   the case for art trips better know.

ART with DESCH

a place to find class information, student work, events and inspiration

Basic Art: Sketchbook 1, Due Friday Feb. 21st

Directions:  Your first assignment is about getting over the fear of a blank book and allowing for freedom and creativity. You will simply be covering pages with backgrounds and borders that will be drawn over top of in future assignments. Each page can now be “used” and hopefully the white page syndrome of the sketchbook will fall by the wayside. Remember you are not creating finished works, but creating interesting surfaces or borders to draw onto later.

  Complete 8 pages, here are SOME options you could explore: REMEMBER THESE ARE SIMPLY SUGGESTIONS, YOU CAN COME UP WITH YOUR OWN TECHNIQUES TOO.

You could draw a border around a page that is made up of doodles with pencil or pen-Put your drawing tool on a page -Close your eyes and draw for 30 seconds - Create a two color wash on the page.(wash=watered down paint, or watercolor) - Collage text on the page - Scribble on the page with pencil; blend with a paper towel to create a value - Create a one color wash on the page - Cut squares in the page - Draw a childlike drawing on the page and paint over it - Create a repetitive pattern on the page using a geometric shape - Find a simple object and cover the page with simple contour drawings of it - Using muted colors paint a page - Create a texture on the page with paint by lifting paint with a towel - Create a negative space painting with a wash - Cover the page with writing about your first day and summer - Collage random pieces on the page - Cut strips of colored paper and glue to the surface - Doodle on the page with a pen - Trade books and have another student treat the surface of a page - Tear a page out and re-collage onto another page - Find a leaf outside - Represent the leaf in some way on the page.

Basic Art: Sketchbook 2, Due Friday Feb. 28th

CHOOSE 4 PROMPTS FROM THE LIST BELOW AND DRAW, PAINT OR COLLAGE THE PROMPTS ON 4 PAGES IN YOUR BOOK.

Draw the contents of your desk drawer

Just before your room is cleaned, draw it

Inside of your refrigerator

Inside your garage

Draw your dad’s work table

Before the dishes are washed, draw them

a pile of laundry waiting to get washed

yourself in a mirror

your brother/sister doing an activity, such as playing video games

your friend, or an enemy

yourself your toenails

your hand holding an object that is important to you.

your bird, cat, dog, fish, snake, leopard, lobster doing something strange

what is in the rear-view mirror of your car

Illustrate a famous saying/quotation

Create your own storyboard/ comic strip.

Draw your favorite cartoon character with background.

Create a new cover for the book you are now reading

Design a house that you would like to live in

Write a large number in the middle of the page.  Turn it into a person/animal.

Draw a picture.  Cut your picture into squares.  Glue the squares in a new design.

Basic Art: Sketchbook 3, March 6th

Sketchb 1: Scissor Metamorphosis:  Use a pair of scissors as a beginning point, creatively transform the scissors into something else- a monster, a robot, a machine, a vehicle, an animal. Change its scale & it purpose.  Try to draw it with full shading . 

Sketch 2: Student Choice:  Choose your own subject and complete a drawing using skills & techniques learned in class.

Sketch 3: Preposterous Cross-links:  Choose 2 things from this list and combine them together into one image/creature/thing:

Turtle      Octopus      Snake        Bird       Bee          Rat    Fish      Cat

Pencil      Saw            Hammer    Pliers     ScissorsTire    Clock   Drum

Sketch 4: : Futuristic Mutation:  Take an everyday object and use your imagination to redesign it with a futuristic look. 

Basic Art: Sketchbook 4, Friday March 13th

Sketch 1: Small world:  What if you were the size of an ant, draw the view you would see if you were in a forest looking at ground level looking up. You can have it look cartoon-like, add fantasy creatures or make it realistic

Sketch 2: Shoe Draw one of your shoes from your closet. Or a shoe that you think is very interesting (ballet, boot, etc.) 

Sketch 3: 2D & 3D Arrows:  Create a full page composition using a combination  of 3-dimensional and  2-dimensional arrows. Use overlapping to break up the spaces into interesting positive and negative shapes.  Possible Medium:   Outline with sharpie and fill the shapes with markers

Sketch 4: Pet Portrait:  Draw a picture of your pet or the pet you would LOVE to have.  Possible Medium:   Colored Pencils

Basic Art: Sketchbook 5, Friday March 20th

Sketch 1: Skateboard Deck Designs:  create TWO designs for the bottom of a skateboard. You can use realistic, abstract or non-objective designs. Keep it CLEAN & appropriate.  Possible Medium:  Sharpies & Markers

Sketch 2: Hand Value Study:  Draw your hand in 2 different appropriate positions (both on the same page). Render with full shading.  Possible Medium:   drawing pencils

Sketch 3: Eye Study:  Find 4  different eyes in magazines. Cut them out & glue them to your sketchbook page. Draw the eyes underneath the picture & render with a FULL range of shading. Possible Medium:  pencils or colored pencils

Sketch 4: Realistic VS Abstract:  Choose one object to draw (an interesting one! NOT simple!) Divide you sketchbook page in half with a pencil line. Label at the top of one side “Realistic” & on the other side label “Abstract.” Under the Realistic side, use a pencil to draw the object as realistically as you possibly can. On the Abstract side, distort your object so that it is still somewhat recognizable-use abstracted colors to color it.  Possible Medium:   Colored Pencils

Basic Art: Sketchbook 6, Friday March 27th

a dead bird in a beautiful landscape

a flower growing next to a turned over garbage can

a piece of cake and make it look delicious

eggs in the shell, scrambled, then over easy

one popcorn kernel popping, draw an opened bag of popcorn

a raw steak, steak bones

moving water, still water

a clear glass full of ice cubes

an object when looking through a tube or a microscope

an object seen through glass (how does the glass make a difference)

something floating, like a boat or a beach ball

a dark object in a light environment

 Fill in the hole, partially cover up the object, draw it emerging from the ground.

Find a quiet place in a crowd, draw the crowd

Find a quiet place, draw the quiet

 Find a noisy place, draw noise

On the school bus, draw your friends on the way to school, draw your friends on the way home Is there a difference?

Shine a light through an open structure such as a woven basket, draw the cast shadow

an object that is lit by the light coming through mini blinds

Basic Art: Sketchbook 7, Friday April 3rd

This week I'd like to for you just draw what you like, what you enjoy, what interests you. Use whatever materials are of interest, whatever techniques. DRAW ON FOUR PAGES. 

Basic Art: Sketchbook 8, Friday April 10th

NO OFFICIAL ASSIGNMENT DUE THIS WEEK! INSTEAD USE THE TIME FOR A REDEMPTION SKETCHBOOK, YOU CAN MAKE UP ONE MISSED ASSIGNMENT TO SHOW ME BY FRIDAY. 

Basic Art: Sketchbook 9, Friday April 24th

Create FOUR Drawings/Paintings/Collages of images from Art History. Choose four artists from the list below, look them up on Google Images and copy one of the images. Please label your pictures. 

Leonardo da Vinci  -  Michelangelo  -  Johannes Vermeer  -  Paul Cézanne  -  Mary Cassat  -   Goya  -   Georgia O’Keeffe  -  

Andy Warhol  -  Roy Lichtenstein   -  Jasper Johns     -   Wayne Thiebaud  -  Claude Monet   -    Edgar Degas   -   Pierre-Auguste Renoir  

Basic Art: Sketchbook 10, Friday May 1st

Sketch 1: Crushed Soda Can:  Draw a crushed soda can, include details like the logo. Render with full shading.  Possible Medium:  drawing pencils

Sketch 2: Bird’s Eye Point of View:  Draw your choice of subject matter from a bird’s eye point of view. From above looking down at the subject. Add shading to indicate highlights & shadows. Possible Medium:   drawing pencil

Sketch 3:   Paper Airplane:   Fold a paper airplane, place it in front of you & draw from direct observation as accurately as you can. ADD FULL SHADING Possible Meddium:  drawing pencil

Sketch 4: Creative Hand Drawing:   Trace you hand -yes Trace your hand on your page. Use your imagination to turn you hand into something different. Add details-make it interesting!    Possible Medium:  colored pencil

Basic Art: Sketchbook 11, Friday May 8th

Sketch 1: Visual Puns : Illustrate 2two-word phrase using drawings of objects related to their meanings. Example: hot dog, hair brush, two face, fish face, bone head Possible Medium:   colored pencil

Sketch 2: Botanical Study:  Find a flower or plant from nature. Study it carefully before drawing. Draw the whole plant on 2/3rds of the page. Select 3 areas to “magnify” & draw smaller, partial up-close drawings of those 3 areas including all the details. ADD FULL SHADING Possible Medium:  watercolor, watercolor pencil, or drawing pencils

Sketch 3: Morphing Transformation:  Choose 2 two objects (one animal & one man made) to slowly morph into each other. You should try to have 6 drawings illustrating the transformation of one object into the other. ADD FULL SHADING Possible Medium:  drawing pencils

Sketchbook4: Mixed Media Experiments:  Have fun experimenting with mixed media techniques.  Do the experimenting on other paper, then cut out the different experiments & glue them in your sketchbook. Label each experiment  with a brief description of how you created it. Try at least 4 of these different experiments. Use up a minimum of 2 pages in your sketchbook.  Possible Medium:  various art supplies

Basic Art: Sketchbook 12, Friday May 15th

CREATE FOUR PAGES OF DESIGNS, PATTERNS, REPETITIONS AND/OR ZEN TANGLES OVER TOP OF FOUR PREVIOUS SKETCHBOOK ASSIGNMENTS.  Possible Medium: pen, sharpie or various art supplies

Basic Art: Sketchbook 13, Friday May 22nd

FAN ART CHALLENGE - Choose FOUR fan character art prompts from the list and make FOUR sketches/drawings. Color optional.

"Fan Art" as defined by Urban Dictionary: Art of any form, usually electronic or drawn free hand, that uses characters or settings from a popular television show, novel, cartoon, anime, or movie as the subject

 1. A character you’ve always wanted to draw

2. A villainous character

3. A nonhuman character

4. A character becoming very, very angry

5. Characters playing a video game

6. A character with an animal

7. Two characters from opposite sides (of a civil war, a ship war, an intergalactic war)

8. A character as a superhero

9. A big tough character posing for a selfie.

10. A character as a pretty princess

11. Characters all done up for Halloween!

12. An animated/comics character in a realistic style

13. A real character in a cartoonish style

14. A character with a deep love of technology/machines

15. Characters dancing

16. Characters working together.

17. A blossoming, cross-fandom romance - in an AU

18.  Multi-Fandom Party!

Basic Art: Sketchbook 14, Friday May 29th

WHAT IS YOUR ZODIAC SIGN? LOOK UP THE SYMBOL AND IMAGE THAT GOES WITH YOUR SIGN AND SKETCH IT. DO THE SAME FOR YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. YOU COULD ALSO LOOK UP THE DESCRIPTIONS AND SKETCH THOSE. MAKE FOUR SKETCHES/DRAWING. . 

AQUARIUS  - JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18

PISCES  - FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

ARIES   - MARCH 21 - APRIL 19

TAURUS  - APRIL 20 - MAY 20

GEMINI  - MAY 21 - JUNE 20

CANCER  - JUNE 21 - JULY 22

LEO  - JULY 23 - AUGUST 22

VIRGO  - AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22

LIBRA  - SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22

SCORPIO  - OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21

SAGITTARIUS  - NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21

CAPRICORN  - DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19

Basic Art: Sketchbook 15, Friday June 5th

FREEK DRAW WEEK! This week I'd like you to draw/paint/collage whatever you want. It could be what you like, what you enjoy, what interests you. It could be practicing a technique or just drawing something you think looks cool.  Use whatever materials are of interest, whatever techniques. DRAW ON FOUR PAGES, IF you are out of blank pages then work on top of old pages.

Basic Art: Sketchbook 16, Friday June 12th

Drawing&painting: sketchbook assignment 1, due 9/23, drawing&painting: sketchbook assignment 2, due friday 9/30.

Sketch1: Complete a contour line drawing(outline) of any subject

 Sketch 2: Complete a second contour line drawing(outline) of any subject

 Sketch 3: Create a blind contour(don’t look at the paper), in which do not look at your paper or lift your pencil. Any subject  

 Sketch 4: Lines can be used to create patterns. Draw four identical boxes and fill each box with repeated lines that show different patterns.

 Feel free to add color to any assignment!

 Drawing&Painting: Sketchbook Assignment 3, Due Friday 10/7

 Choose four of the prompts to inspire your FOUR sketches this week.  Try to incorporate any drawing techniques we are currently working on in class. 

  The seasons                                                             Pairs 

Paris                                                                           Home is where...

 All that glitters...                                                       The senses 

 Threads                                                                   It's my nature 

Take cover                                                   It's not easy being green Color outside the lines                             Hot and cold 

 Lemon Yellow                                                       Forest Floor

Black and White & red all over                  sunset 

 Metallics                                                                  Autumn

Food                                                                           A Pet

Liquid                                                             Halloween

Drawing&Painting: Sketchbook Assignment 4, Due Monday 10/17

 this week i would like you to research some artists. choose four artists from the list and research their work, sketch one of their pieces of art, write down the name and date it was created. .

                          Da Vinci                     Rembrandt                Michelangelo

Claude Monet               Edgar Degas                  Pierre-Auguste Renoir                      Mary Cassat      or     Paul Cezanne  orGeorgia O’Keefe

Andy Warhol-   Roy Lichtenstein-   Jasper Johns     -   Wayne Thiebaud 

                                                OrClaes Oldenburg          

Drawing&Painting:  Sketchbook Assignment 5, Due Friday 10/21

 The Elements of art: Line, Shape, Space, Texture, Form, Color and Value

 Fill four pages with drawing, painting and/or collaging. The images must include examples of each of the 7 elements of art. Please label the elements on your pages.

Drawing&Painting:  Sketchbook Assignment 6, Due Friday 10/28

 Page 1: Make 15-20 gesture drawings on one page, but only take one minute per drawing

Sketch 2: Set up a still life of 3 or more objects and draw them using shading and value.  Try to draw them to scale and with the proportions correct.

 Sketch 3: This time draw the same still life but from a different angle like from above or below. Also, try a new media or a new approach to the drawing. For example, try using contour lines.

 Sketch 4: Practice shading a sphere, cone or Cube.

 Drawing&Painting:  Sketchbook Assignment 7, Due Friday 11/4

Make four images in your sketchbook either a drawing, painting, writing or collage. each image should have something to do with the following themes. .

 Sketch 1 - Theme: THE ENVIRONMENT

 Sketch 2 - Theme: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

 Sketch 3 - Theme of MUSIC.

 Sketch 4 - Theme: ROAD TRIPS, TRAVEL AND ADVENTURES

Drawing&Painting:  Sketchbook Assignment 8, Due Friday 11/11

  FOUR DRAWINGS : You can draw, paint, OR collage anything you feel inspired to create! Have fun.

Drawing&Painting: Sketchbook Assignment 9, Due Friday 11/18

Choose four of the prompts to inspire your FOUR sketches this week.  Try to incorporate any drawing techniques we are currently working on in class. 

  A Pattern                               Oops. Wrong Color?

Lonely…object                        Messiest vs. cleanest

A Contradiction             Ballpoint pen only!

Items in my backpack   Music to my ears

Normal                                  Not Normal

Plugged in.                    Strange Portrait

Animal Patterns            Rearview mirror of the car.

Draw yourself as an original superhero.

Make a drawing that looks sticky.

Draw a mysterious doorway or staircase.

Find a trash can. Draw its contents.

Copy a famous artist found online

Sketchbook Assignment 10, Due Friday 12/2

Sketch 1: Collage a color wheel design using scraps of paper found in my scrap bin, old magazines or any source of old paper.  It must include REDs, ORANGEs, YELLOWs, GREENs, BLUEs, and PURPLEs

Sketch 2, 3 and 4 : Choose three of the following prompts and make a sketch inspired by the prompt. Please try to incorporate color.

Draw a slice of the best pizza you have ever seen , Draw junk food and the wrapper,  Draw your favorite food,  Create your own restaurant. Draw the restaurant or the inside or outside,  Draw the ingredients or process of your favorite recipe,  Draw salt and pepper shakers,  Draw fresh fruit or vegetables, or something fresh from the oven,   Draw a salad.,  Draw the oldest thing in your refrigerator.,  Make a drawing that is totally truthful.   Make a drawing that lies all over the place.  Make a drawing that is completely and utterly impossible.  Story Illustration: Fix a story that you don’t like, or reflect/improve upon one you do.   Let someone else choose your subject and tell you what to draw.   Draw your greatest fear. Use song lyrics, quotes, or poetry to inspire a drawing.    Find the three most useless objects you can and draw them.   Draw an interesting form of transportation.  Draw something for which you are thankful.  Go somewhere new and draw what you see.  Draw something that can’t be turned off.   Draw something soothing.  Draw something you think sounds or smells incredible.  Draw something that needs fixing.   Draw something you’ve always wanted.  Draw something out of place.Draw something that should have been invented by now.  Draw something you keep putting off, or something that causes you to procrastinate.Draw everything on a restaurant table.Draw your hand. Draw your friend’s hand. Draw a stranger’s hand. Draw a teacher teaching.   Draw a teacher on their computer.   Draw a teacher helping a student.   Draw a classmate that doesn’t know you are drawing them.  Draw a group of students in a class.

Sketchbook Assignment 11, Due Friday 12/9

 THIS WEEK DRAW ALL OF THE FOLLOWING PROMPTS IN BETWEEN OR OVER TOP OF PREVIOUS SKETCHBOOK ASSIGNMENTS.

  Sketch 1: Draw a regular geometric style pattern of shapes on a past assignment.

Sketch 2: Use letters and numbers to make a design BUT DO NOT try to make it say anything. It should be something inscrutable. Remember, make this over a previous homework or classwork assignment.

Sketch 3: Make a pattern based on something you would see in nature, think close up.  Example: tree bark

Again, make this over a previous homework or classwork assignment

Sketch 4: Add on to another weeks drawing in some creative way. For example, draw an animal eating out of one of the previous vases/bowls you drew or.....

Sketchbook Assignment 12, Due Friday 12/16

 Sketch 1: Sketch a winter landscape. Consider foreground, middleground and background in your composition.

Sketch 2 : Sketch a tree that is specific to your favorite season.

Sketch 3: Sketch a landscape that takes place in summer. Think about adding clouds, sky, water and/or a horizon line. The location of this sketch can take place anywhere.

Sketch 4: Sketch an unrealistic landscape. Consider an imaginary place, perhaps from a book or film. 

Sketchbook Assignment 13, Due Friday 1/6

 Sketch 1: Find a face in a magazine. Cut it out, cut it in half and glue the half into your sketchbook. Now draw and shade the missing half of the face.

 Sketch 2: Find another interesting picture in a magazine, cut it out and glue it in to your sketchbook. Now draw and add onto the photo in some creative way.

 Sketch 3: Find a Word or a group of words in a magazine or old book, cut it out and paste it into your sketchbook. Make a drawing in and around the word and try to incorporate the word into a drawing composition.

 Sketch 4: Repeat one of the previous criteria in sketch 1, 2 OR 3.

 NO school Friday 1/13 and Monday 1/16 so NO sketchbook during this time

 Sketchbook Assignment 15, Due Friday 1/20

 Focus on The Principles of Design this week.

 Sketch 1: Create a Free Draw that shows symmetrical balance. Consider the principles of compositional movement when sketching your design.

Sketch 2: Create a Free Draw that shows asymmetrical balance. Consider the principles of compositional movement when sketching your design.

 Sketch 3: Create a Free Draw that incorporates and focuses on the Principle of Pattern and Rhythm. Consider trying an organic pattern with flowing irregular rhythm.

 Sketch 4: Create a Free Draw that uses the Principle of Contrast to show an image with an Emphasis or a focal point.

 Sketchbook Assignment 16, Due Friday 1/27

 Focus on Portraiture this week.

Sketch1 : An easy way to learn to draw the person is by drawing the figure from a back view. Drawing a figure from the back minimizes details, stresses shape and contour and eliminates the face. Try it, draw a person from behind. To make your composition interesting and exciting, emphasize an element or principle of design.

Sketch 2: Draw a person’s head and face using exaggeration to communicate emotion. Work from a live model if possible. First use a pencil to make a general drawing. Note the shapes and planes of the face and how they fit together. Then continue over the drawing with a darker media. Utilize strong contrast to greatly exaggerate the areas you want to emphasize.

Sketch 3 : Draw someone from real life, attempt a realistic drawing.

Sketch 4 : Sketch a famous actor, actress, musician, artist, politician, writer OR superhero.

 Last Day of the Semester is Feb. 2nd so the final week of class will be a “Redemption Sketchbook” week. Those of you that want to make up an assignment from 2nd quarter, this is the week to do it. You can only make up one sketchbook assignment.

  ·       

• Free Resources
• Register for Free

Art Homework That Doesn’t Need Marking!

Even the best, most dedicated, Art Teacher can sometimes feel the marking and assessment burden. Homework and classwork mount up and it all needs marking. Here I have 15 excellent suggestions for homework tasks that still move our students forward, but don’t need marking. Many of them also lead to you having an excellent starter for your next lesson.

• Research what the letters & numbers on pencils mean.  E.g. the H and the B.
• Make a list of the items in their home that are made of ceramic.
• Collect an item to contribute towards a still life.
• Photograph or bring in an object that they will then draw in class.
• Set a homework to watch a YouTube clip that is relevant to the unit of work.
• Bring in an example picture of an artwork by an artist or movement you are studying to add to a class collage/display.

• Bring in a keyword to add to the display mentioned in number 6.  Hand drawn or word-processed in an appropriate and creative way.
• Research what drawing from a primary or secondary source is, ready to discuss.
• Research facts about an artist or movement.  All students stand at the start of class and get to sit down when they share a fact.  Each student nominates which student gives the next fact.
• Introduce ‘creative drawing’ homework where the student chooses what do draw and in what media to embrace freedom of choice and creativity.  These could be in a separate mini sketchbook or the back of their sketchbook.  These are unmarked homework tasks that encourage students to take risks and experiment without the fear of a poor grade.
• Research the difference between a line and tone drawing ready to discuss at the start of the next lesson.
• All collect a colourful disposable object (eg milk bottle top) to make a giant colour wheel in class.
• Create a Pinterest board on an artist or theme.
• Older Students 16+ go to Arty Students and look at the exemplary projects here .  Ask students to find a piece of work within a project that they like ready to discuss at the start of the following lesson.

Click on the image below to download this super-useful list as a document.

Enjoy this article, Drop it a like

Or share it.

The Arty Teacher

Sarah Crowther is The Arty Teacher. She is a high school art teacher in the North West of England. She strives to share her enthusiasm for art by providing art teachers around the globe with high-quality resources and by sharing her expertise through this blog.

4 responses to “Art Homework That Doesn’t Need Marking!”

A pleasure 🙂

This is great! Thanks. I like to get my classes to write me a short article on spiritual art for homework too and also have a honest discussion about their opinions of artwork in a gallery or museum. Another activity is to go to a park and sketch the trees. Alternatively you could have them go to a duckpond and draw ducks. Other activities include a presentation on their favourite medium to use. You could even teach a powerful moving lesson on how emotion can be actively expressed through artwork as well. Or you can ask them to decoupage a shoebox etc for homework. Examples of cool original art homework projects are animal drawing, life drawing, flower tracing, toy design, bookmaking and so on. What about writing art essays and art competitions? Paired activities are good as well for fostering a sense of teamwork in class.

There are some great ideas here. If my students do a drawing I would have to mark it. Wouldn’t you?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Blog Categories

• Art Careers 42
• Art Lesson Resources 22
• Arty Students 6
• Inspiration 65
• Pedagogy 39
• Running an Art Department 20
• Techniques & Processes 47

More Resources you might like...

Subscribe & save in any currency! I WANT TO PAY IN Australian Dollars ($) Canadian Dollars ($) Euros (€) Pound Sterling (£) New Zealand Dollar ($) US Dollars ($) South African rand Change Currency

Free subscription, for one teacher, premium subscription, premium plus subscription, for one or more teachers, privacy overview.

Learn to draw with BRad Colbow

I’m a self taught artist. When I started learning I was overwhelmed. The artists I was learning from made amazing content but they were teaching college level courses and I needed to start a lot earlier. My courses are designed for beginners to get their foot in the door and start learning digital art.

My Online COurses

Learn To Draw in 60 Days

Great for newcomers looking to get into drawing and illustration. We start with the basics and build on it every day with a video lesson explaining a new skill with projects and homework to practice every day. Go at your own pace.

Intro To Digital Art

Once you have that great sketch how to you finish it off and turn it into a beautiful piece of digital art? Use one of the dozens of included sketches or bring your own. Packed full of homework and assignments so you can follow along and practice.

Getting Started In Procreate

Procreate is one of my favorite drawing apps on the iPad. In this course we go step by step through all the features big and small and learn about drawing, painting, animation and even a little 3D.

Free Resources

Shading with pencils

Get all the resources from the shading with pencil lessons from the Brad’s art school video

Intro to color theory

Color is fun and once you get a feel for using it in your drawings really powerful too. These resources from the video will help.

Perspective Grids

These are the assets used in Episode 7 of Brad's Art School. Printable PDF Grids and also some transparent version for those of you drawing digitally.

Professional Development

• Login Talk to a Mentor

15 Innovative School Homework Ideas to Make Learning Fun

Aashita Pillai

Aashita is a writer here at Suraasa and has formerly worked as a Teacher Mentor for a couple of years. She wields words like weapons to help readers get clear and concise information.

Introduction

General tips to keep students hooked to school homework, 15 innovative school homework ideas to engage your students, theme a: arts and crafts, theme b: physical and outside activities, theme c: digital activities, theme d: games, theme e: entrepreneurship.

“Hi teachers! I am your old friend, School Homework. Over time as education changed, so have I— thanks to the endless innovations that happened to me.  Let me take you through my life and the various innovations that made me your best friend- I was born in the 1920s to help students reinforce what they learned in class. Until the 1980s, I was basically just pen-and-paper-based assignments.  The Internet was born in 1983. From there onwards, I made my stride into the ‘digital era’.

Until the beginning of 2020, I was slowly being integrated within online platforms and technology to help students learn better. Then at the onset of 2020, the world plunged into the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools shifted to a ‘remote learning’ mode of education. During this pandemic, you and I became very crucial in ensuring the continuity of our students’ learning. You all embraced creative approaches to keep the students engaged. You leveraged interactive games, virtual simulations, & more to make me engaging. Gone are the days when you, my dear teachers, would limit your homework to worksheets, textbook questions, literature reviews, and reports. Today as we stand here in 2023, there is no limit to innovative and exciting homework formats! Well, that’s from me. See you in the classrooms!”

So teachers, we heard from homework about how it has evolved over time. As it said, many innovative ways have come up to reinforce our students' learning. So, are you ready to make your students fall in love with these new school homework ideas? Let’s begin with understanding some general tips to keep your students engaged with their school homework.

1. Make it Relevant and Meaningful 

Connect the school homework to their lives, interests, or current events to make it more meaningful and relatable. For example, if it’s Christmas time, you can ask your students to explore the themes of charity, storytelling, etc.

2. Give Them a Choice

Allow students to have some choice and autonomy in their assignments. Ask them to select the format (e.g. written format in the online medium, oral format in the offline medium) in which they want to submit their homework. When they feel a sense of ownership, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged. This is how you become a 21st-century teacher who uses differentiated learning. 

3. Celebrate Their Achievements

When children get appreciated for their achievements or good behaviour, it boosts their self-confidence. It encourages them to repeat those actions. This creates a positive learning environment. They are more likely to deliver results when appreciated for their actions. Hence, you can celebrate their achievements via small rewards, recognition or a display of their work in class.

Let's move to the next part of this blog, where we will share innovative school homework ideas that will turn mundane homework into engaging learning sessions!  After assigning any of these innovative homework ideas, you might never hear students’ innovative excuses to avoid homework! To give you a quick run-through, these ideas have been grouped under some common themes. Under each theme, you will learn how to use 3 ideas listed alongside relevant examples to comprehend it completely. Come along as we give the ratty old homework a MAKEOVER!

By infusing the joy of arts and crafts into school homework, you can tap into the innate curiosity and imagination of your students. And you never know, you might end up being the person that shaped the next Da Vinci! So, let’s get right into it:

1. Create Your Storybook

We all have heard stories. We have loved them and adored them. So why not give our students a chance to write one?  After the students submit their storybooks, you can review their stories and give personalised feedback. Such feedback addresses each student’s individual needs, strengths, and areas for improvement. This fosters a student-centric learning environment.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

2. Make Your Own Board Game

Do you remember the joy of gathering around a table, rolling a dice, and playing Snakes & Ladders? As kids and even as adults, many of us love spending our time playing board games.  Now, picture becoming the teacher that integrates school homework with a board game! Students can design board games and incorporate artistic elements into their theme, board layout, cards, etc. They can become architects of fun and learning!

Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

3. Construct a Birdhouse

Now, let’s tap into the sweet nostalgia of DIY(Do it Yourself) Projects. It could be something as simple as bedsheet forts or something a little more complex like a birdhouse 🙂 Won’t it be wonderful to watch your students feel a sense of accomplishment when they build their own handmade creations?  Let’s focus on the idea of constructing a birdhouse. By assigning students this homework, you’ll additionally be encouraging kinesthetic learning . 

Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

Students love spending their time outdoors. Assigning school homework that requires them to be outside is a big plus! It will also help them apply what’s taught in class in real-life situations and promote active learning.

4. Participate in a Scavenger Hunt

Everyone loves a good old mystery! Give your students the chance to be modern-day ‘Sherlock Holmes’ as they set out on scavenger hunts.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

5. Maintain a Physical Activity Journal

In this digital age, where mobile and laptop screens often dominate, the majority of the students lead sedentary lifestyles. School homework which encourages physical activity, can be a game-changer! And what better than maintaining a physical activity journal that helps with it? Additionally, it will also promote the healthy habit of having an active lifestyle among students.  Getting students to journal can seem tough, but with the right motivation & incentives, it can be done. Additionally, this can also be a fun summer holiday homework, where students can keep track of their activities all summer! Encourage them to document their daily exercise triumphs. Push them to go beyond their own records! Ask them to explore science concepts- BMI, heart and pulse rates, diet, and nutrition! Once you do this, exercise will not just be about breaking a sweat anymore. It will also be something that incorporates learning! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

6. Conduct a Survey at a Local Supermarket

This outdoor activity is an extremely fun option for school homework. Most kids love running through the different aisles in a supermarket. Introducing a concept like surveys here gives them a chance to do some ‘real-life’ work and also provides much-needed relief to their parents!  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

In the age of tech-savvy students, we often find parents complaining about the excess screen time with their kids. But what if you could harness the untapped potential in technology? Today's kids are already immersed in the digital world, so why not tap into their enthusiasm and merge it with learning?  Let’s look at some innovative methods of assigning digital activities for school homework:

7. Record a Virtual Job Application

This can be a fun homework assignment for students of all grades. One thing that we often forget as teachers is that school is not just about the present; it's also about the future. But often, we don’t discuss the future. This results in students being almost lost when it comes to their future career opportunities.  This is exactly where this school homework activity helps. Assigning school homework related to professions is a great chance for students to explore their career options. This, in turn, will help them be better prepared for life after school.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

8. Participate in Online Collaborative Projects

Online projects are a catalyst for active learning and student engagement. They can be a tool for you to create a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Additionally, these activities enhance digital literacy and empower students to leverage technology for learning. Working on online collaborative projects will also help students learn how to function together as a team. This is something that also prepares them for life beyond school, where it’s crucial to learn to work together.

9. Virtual Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange events open doors to new horizons, offering students a unique chance to explore diverse cultures. By immersing them in new traditions, you develop acceptance, and empathy in your students. You give them a chance to have a broad and more inclusive perspective of the world. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

Game-based school homework is one of the best ways to engage your students. Integrating learning within games creates a powerful synergy where education and entertainment merge seamlessly.  It’s time to tap into your students’ natural love for games and leverage it!

10. Use Minecraft as a Learning Tool

Ah, Minecraft! A name that brings back memories of endless adventures in pixelated landscapes. It’s a game that is a nostalgic reminder of our childhood.  But did you know that Minecraft can be more than just a game? It can be a powerful learning tool to level up the educational experience of your students.  💡Learn how to leverage Minecraft to make your classrooms more engaging! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

11. Encourage Role-Playing Games

Lights, camera, action! Role-playing games(RPGs) let students step into the shoes of a character and bring lessons to life. Even though RPGs are not typically classified as games, their unique blend of learning and fun makes them ideal for educational purposes.  You can assign students to act out roleplays based on a historical event, scientific concept or work of literature. They can develop characters, write dialogues, and present this to the class. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

12. Online Challenges

You can introduce online challenges like coding of varying difficulties for different grade levels. Platforms like Scratch or Code.org can be helpful for this purpose. Coding challenges offer hands-on experience to students. It allows them to practice coding concepts and algorithms in a practical and engaging manner.  Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

In today's competitive world, students who embrace innovative thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset stand out. As a teacher, you can nurture these qualities in your students via thought-provoking school homework. Such assignments can ignite students' passion for problem-solving, creative thinking, and strategic planning. Let’s look at some of the ideas below.

13. Pitch Your Business Idea

Have you watched shows like Shark Tank or Billion Dollar Buyer? Have you been completely captivated by the business pitches on these shows? Now, imagine doing the same for your students— unleashing their entrepreneurial spirit. It’s time to bring the hustle of the business world into your classrooms! Encourage students to develop a business idea and create a persuasive pitch. They should research their target market, competitors, and unique selling points. In fact, students can present their pitch using multimedia tools, such as slides or videos, highlighting the problem they're solving and the value their business brings. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

14. Design a Mobile App

Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. Think about the countless hours that you spend on your smartphone, exploring different apps that make your life easier. This is a practice growing like fire amongst kids as well and is cause for serious concern! What if they spend time on their phone and learn at the same time? This homework assignment encourages students to apply their creativity and technical skills to develop a concept for a mobile application. Additionally, you can also assign this as a holiday homework assignment and let students go wild with learning during summer! Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely:

*Technologies like designing mobile applications can be too complex for the primary school. Hence, we focus on this idea only for middle and high school students.

15. Set up a Stall at the School Fair

This homework acts as an Introduction to Business 101 class for students of all grade levels. Students get to decide what stall to put up, then work on the logistics and finally manage the stall and finances on D-Day. This will teach students real-world skills and give them a feeling of ownership. Let's look at a few examples to understand this school homework approach more closely: 

Grade-Specific Tips to follow while Preparing School Homework ‍

1. primary school students ‍.

• Keep it Interactive and Hands-on Younger children thrive on tactile and interactive experiences. Incorporate more of arts and crafts, storytelling, etc., to make homework enjoyable for them.
• Use Visuals Vibrant colours will capture their attention and make tasks visually appealing.
• Keep it Short Primary school students have limited attention spans. Give them small tasks that they can accomplish in a limited timeframe. ‍

2. Middle School students ‍

• Offer More Choices Middle schoolers are often teenagers already on the precipice of changes beyond their control. They will appreciate having some control over their learning. Allow them to choose topics or formats that align with their interests.
• Incorporate Technology Middle school students are often technologically savvy. Utilise online resources, interactive platforms, and digital tools to make homework more engaging and relevant to their interests.
• Encourage Independent Research Foster their curiosity by assigning research-based projects. Encourage them to explore various sources and present their findings in creative ways. ‍

3. High School Students ‍

• Encourage Critical Thinking and Analysis High schoolers are capable of higher-order thinking skills. Assign tasks that require critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Encourage Self-expression Offer creative assignments that allow them to express their thoughts, opinions and ideas. Remember that they are young adults finding their voice in a loud world. Encourage them to write essays, create multimedia presentations, or engage in spirited debates.
• Push for Practical Application Assign tasks that connect to real-world situations, allowing them to see the relevance and importance of their learning. ‍

How to Improve Your Homework and Other Teaching Strategies?

Do you want to learn about more strategies to improve school homework? What if you could upskill and improve all your teaching strategies- classroom management, assessment, and lesson planning, among many others? Book a call with a mentor to get dedicated teacher counselling on upskilling and improving your teaching strategies.

In a world where school homework is generally met with students’ whining, you can use these approaches to turn it into a gateway for innovation! By infusing ideas such as game-based learning, digital activities, and arts and crafts, you can help students engage with school homework meaningfully. This will foster a lifelong love for learning among your students, ultimately helping them succeed in and beyond the classroom. Want a short compilation of all the amazing school homework ideas? Click the button below

What is Suraasa?

Keep Reading

A Teacher's Guide to the Different Types of Curriculum

This guide explores different types of curriculum. Learn their characteristics, examples, and impact on teaching and learning.

Mastering the Lecture Method: Types, Benefits, and Real-World Examples

Explore the lecture method, including its types, benefits, & practical examples to engage students effectively.

How to Write a Winning Application for a Teaching Job

Discover key strategies for crafting standout applications for teaching jobs - includes expert tips and practical examples!

The Art Teacher

Art Lesson Ideas, Plans, Free Resources, Project Plans, and Schemes of Work. An 'outstanding' art teacher in Greater Manchester. Teaching KS3 and KS4 art and design.

KS3 Art – Cubism Home Learning Project

It sounds bad to say but “ I’m making this project up as I go along” 😂  as in, it’s not finished yet! I’m creating the home learning Cubism Scheme of Work for my KS3 (Year 9) classes and I am going to add lessons weekly depending on how my students respond to it and how much work they get done each week etc. If you would like me to share the presentation (what I have so far) just leave a comment below so I can share it with your email.

Email Address

*Update* I have added some more examples of the lesson slides and student’s work. Enjoy!

The overall aim of the project is for students to find a Cubist artist and create some research, then understand the features of Cubist work. I want students to be able to engage at home with minimal equipment so the first few lessons will be focused on drawings then eventually (hopefully) adding colour.

For this Cubism project, I am going to be sharing one lesson per week with my students, and updating the presentation slides as I go along – in our school we have 2 hour lessons in Y9 so some of the tasks might seem quite lengthy. If you want to use the presentation feel free to change / alter it so it’s suited to your classes.

I am using Loom to talk over the presentation slides and explain what I want students to do, whilst also posting the task in their online classroom. Here is what I have posted online the first part of the lockdown tasks:

Create at least one research page (on paper or online) about Cubism. – Add the title: Cubism – Find one Cubist artist and write 3 facts about them. Add pictures of their work. – Explain the key features of Cubism (objects overlapping, drawn from different viewpoints and positive / negative colours.) – Draw a section of their work carefully, including shading (and colour if you have the equipment) All writing should be in your own words and in full sentences. It can be done online or on paper, just submit a photograph of anything you have done.

For lesson two / week 2 I will ask students to focus on drawing an object from different directions, as described in this slide.

For lesson / week 3, I asked students to self-assess their artwork using the criteria from the previous lesson. They then looked at more Cubist artworks and identified how the artists used colour to create patterns and areas of positive / negative colour. This colour theory lesson introduced complementary colours and has a couple of shorter tasks (which are in the full presentation). Understanding how Cubist artists used colour informed the students next steps.

Lesson / week 3 in this Cubism project focused on artist’s use of tone. Students identified ‘successful’ tonal work, then applied their understanding of colour theory again (from the previous lesson). I asked students to work in warm tones this week to ensure they didn’t start adding too many colours all at once. It also helped them realise that harmonious colours on the wheel blend more smoothly.

And that’s everything I have so far! One student moved on quicker than the other and added cool harmonious colours to their work, I think it’s looking great:

If you would like this (unfinished) art home learning / Cubism project just leave a comment and I will share the presentation (what I have done so far!) with your email address. Also let me know if you have any questions or ideas about the project .

Enter your email address

Could you make a small donation to help cover the cost of keeping this site free? It’s getting more expensive to keep online. Thank you!

Sharing is caring

103 thoughts on “ ks3 art – cubism home learning project ”.

Would very much appreciate lockdown projects. Thankyou.

Hi, thanks for your comment – I have just shared this with you 🙂

I’d like you to share this with me, so I can use the cubism project with my Yr8s.Thank you,

Like Liked by 1 person

Hi, no problem! I have just shared it, enjoy 🙂

Yes please would love this unit of work on cubism Thanks

Thanks for your comment, I have just shared it with you 🙂

Love this Cubism project. Please send me the powerpoint as my students will enjoy these tasks. Thank you Fiona

Hi, no problem! I have just shared it 🙂 enjoy.

Hello, please could you share I would love to use some elements of the presentation for my upcoming yr8 cubism unit. Thank you

Hi, yes of course! It would be great to see some of the work your students do too 🙂

I am doing something very very similar with my class! Would it be possible to see your PowerPoint please? It will be really helpful. Thank you!

Hi, thanks for your comment – I have just shared it with you! It’d be good to know how you get along with your class too 🙂

Hi This looks fab, and love the minimalist equipment approach I think this could work well with my class if you do not mind sharing. Thank you

Thanks for your comments, I’ve shared this with you. I hope it’s useful!

Hi there, myself and my students would love to have a copy if still available?

It’s still available and I just sent it to you – thanks and enjoy!

Please can you share the resources if possible, thank you

Like Liked by 2 people

I have just shared this one with you too, thanks for your comments! 🙂

this is great, would love a copy

Thanks! I have just shared it with you – hope it’s useful 🙂

Could I have a copy of this also please

Yes, no problem – I have just shared it 🙂

Hi is it possible to have a copy of this cubism scheme of work. Thank you.

Hi, I have just shared the project with you 🙂

Hi, this looks great – if possible would I be able to get a copy? Thanks very much.

Hi, yes of course! I just shared it with you 🙂

I love the cubism and abstract! I have to honestly say that I only experimented with this subject matter twice. I’ve noticed that most of the artists I’ve met experiment with abstract and cubism as their primary focus! It seems so adventurous and liberating!!! I have to take a dab at it again. Keep up great work!

Excellent really good ideas

Thank you, would you like a copy of the resources?

Hello Lively ideas, very inspiring for the learners. I would love a copy to try with my students. Thank you!

Hi, thanks for your comment and no problem, I have just shared it with you 🙂

Looks great so far! Would love to see the rest of it please?

I have just shared it with you – thanks for your comment 🙂

Great resources for using at home / adapting for classroom. Could I possibly have a copy of the cubism resources?

Hi, yes I think this Cubism project could easily be used in a classroom too! I have just shared the project with you 🙂

I’d like a copy please, it looks great!

Thanks 🙂 I just shared the Cubism project with you, I hope it’s useful.

can i have a copy please? looks great!

Sure, I have just shared the Cubism art project with you, enjoy!

This project looks great. Could I possibly have a copy of the cubism resources please?

Hi, thanks for your comment and yes! I have just sent the scheme of work to you.

New to the art teacher thing. Would love to try this program.

No problem, I have just shared it with you!

This is a great presentation. Thank you for sharing. I would love a copy please.

Thanks for your comment! And yes, I have just sent it to you 🙂

Hey there! This looks amazing!!

I full time homeschool my about to be yr 8 autistic daughter, who loves art. We follow the national curriculum and I just discovered your blog page. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful SOW. I was wondering if you might be happy to send me a copy please? I understand I’m not a teacher so this may not be something you would do, and that’s ok, I just thought I would ask. Many thanks for your consideration and also a massive thank you again for this inspiring blog x

Thanks so much for your comment 🙂 I hope it’s useful for you and your daughter enjoys it!

This is creative. Thank you for sharing. I would love a copy, please.

Hi, of course – I just shared it 🙂

With my thoughts drifting to the possibility of home learning again after the holidays I would really appreciate a copy of this presentation- it looks like a really fun project for students. Thank you

Hi, no problem, I just shared it! Currently looking at a few distance learning art projects myself…

I would love a copy of this!

This project looks fab I think my year 8s would love this project I’d love a copy if possible. Thanks

Hi, yes of course – I have just shared it with you 🙂

This looks amazing! I have a very artistic daughter who isn’t accessing school just now. I’m not an art teacher but would love to have a copy to work through with her. Thankyou very much in advance 🙂

Hi, thanks for your comment. Lovely to hear that parents working at home are using the resources too 🙂 I hope it’s fun for your daughter!

Thankyou very much for the pack. I really appreciate you sharing it.

thank you so much. Exactly what i needed.

Glad it is useful for you – I have just shared it 🙂

Thank you for sharing these fantastic ideas! Any chance to get a copy at this point? As a trainee teacher I would love to give this a try!

Hi, yes of course! I just sent it – best of luck with your trainee year, enjoy it 🙂

Thank you for sharing these fantastic lessons for the unit! Any chance to get a copy at this point? As a teacher developing the art curriculum this would be great!!

Hi, thanks for your comment! I have just shared it with you – I hope it’s helpful for your curriculum development 🙂

Please could you share the Cubism lessons with me via email – it looks fantastic!

Hi, yes of course – I have just sent it 🙂 thanks.

Please could you share the Cubism lessons with me via email – it looks fantastic!

Hi, no problem! I have just shared it with you 🙂

Please could you share the Cubism lessons with me via email – it looks fantastic! Your website is very helpful. Thank you!

Hi, I just sent it – and thanks for your lovely comment, glad it’s been helpful 🙂

I would also love to have your powerpoint, if still available? thanks very much – I am an ECT writing scheme’s of work from scratch so this will be invaluable!

Wow, thank you for sharing this resource. Could I also get the presentation, please?

No problem! I just shared it, sorry it’s taken a while 🙂

Excellent fresh response to cubism

Glad you like it! I just sent the presentation over.

Hi. I would love a copy of your presentations. I am Y6 and not very knowledgeable about this subject- it’s a long time since I’ve done O level art! Would like to view to inform my teaching of our drawing Unit. The results look amazing!

Hi – thanks for your message and I appreciate how tough it is for non-specialists teaching art! I hope this is useful for you and your students 🙂

I’d really appreciate you to sharing this with me, so I can use the cubism project with my students. Thank you,

No problem – I just sent it! I hope your students enjoy iy 🙂

Thanks so much – this is a really great resource which enables Cubism to become very accessible, thank you for sharing! Much appreciated!

thanks please share with me

I just shared it 🙂

Hi there, this looks fab! I would love a copy please!

Hi! I just shared it 🙂 thanks for your comment.

Hi there! This project looks so great, would you be able to share it with me as well? Thank you so much!

Hi, thanks for your comment – I’m glad you like the look of it! I have just shared it with you 🙂

Thanks very much for this lesson starter – Im teaching KS4 to my GCSE students but I can easily adapt this and would love to see the slides and use them while I’m looking at the work of John Piper

Hi, no problem – I just shared it!

Would be great to see your PowerPoint on this 🙂

I have just shared it 🙂

Yes, I just shared it 🙂

Hi I would love to see this project

Hi – I just sent it over, I hope it’s handy for you.

Hello! This is still so great, post covid! Would love to see it if possible!

Hi there! This project looks ideal. Would you be able to share it with me as well? Thank you so much in advance! A 🙂

Hi, glad you like the look of it and yes, I just sent it 🙂 enjoy.

Hi. I love this so much. Please could it be emailed to me?

Hi, yes of course! Thanks for the comment 🙂

Would love it if you could share this with us as we’re currently refreshing our Cubism SOW – thanks!

I have just sent it over – enjoy!

Hello I would love this resource if possible, thank you!

Yes, of course! You’re welcome.

can I have a copy of this lesson? It looks great 🙂

Yes, and thanks! I just sent it 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Published by art_teacher_mcr

Making and teaching art. Based in Manchester. View all posts by art_teacher_mcr

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Teach Art at Home!

Welcome to our Freebies page, where you can find free art resources, ebooks, videos, coloring pages, and lots of other information to make teaching art at home easier. There’s a lot of content on this page, so feel free to scroll through or click on one of the following links to jump to the resources you’re interested in. This page will be updated from time to time, so be sure to check back!

Free Ebook | Free Activities | Free Art Class Lessons | More Free Lessons | Art Supply Lists

Pastel Landscape Ebook | Cartooning by the Numbers Ebook

Free Ebook: Art and Your Home School

Enrich Your Children’s Lives Through Art

Join See the Light Art’s monthly newsletter list to receive free tips and videos for teaching art at home. The newsletter will go out only once a month (No Spam Emails!) although you might occasionally recieve a reminder about our Back to School and Black Friday sales. (Also, we will never share or sell your information or email address. That’s a promise!)

Free Activities (March 20-26)

We have a couple of cute panda coloring pages and a free video lesson from our Bible Stories: The Crossmaker series. Jim Pence demonstrates how to paint an easy watercolor version of Calvary (“Cross Hill”) so get out your watercolors and paint along! 

To download the coloring pages as printable PDF files, click the link below the image and it will load into your browser. Or right-click the link and choose “Save” or “Save as.”

Downloadable Coloring Pages

Download Panda #1

Download Panda #2

Free Bible Story Project

Free Art Class Lessons to Download or Stream

More Free Lessons

Art Supply Lists

What art supplies do you need for Art Class, Art Projects, and Bible Stories? Download the lists you need here:

ART-CLASS-(All lessons)

ART PROJECTS

Peaceful-Seas

Horsing-Around

Dreams-of-Joseph

Poppy-Collage

Pointillism- Fruit

Paper-Jungle

Repeated-Sweets

Tiffany-Window

INTERACTIVE BIBLE STORIES

GODS-RUNAWAY

THE-GIFT-OF-LOVE

THE-CROSSMAKER

SHIPWRECKED

GODS-SPECIAL-SURPRISE

Pastel Landscape Ebook

Here’s an ebook package with a fun pastel project for you to try.

There’s something for all ages here, including a coloring page and an easy version for beginners.

Click on the links below to download:

Pastel Landscape Resource & Study Guide

Pastel Landscape Easy Version

Pastel Landscape Coloring Page

Reference Photo: (Right-click and choose “Save” or “Save as” to download.)

Cartooning by the Numbers Ebook

Have fun learning how to create cartoon faces from numbers with this free ebook, based on a lesson from our video series, Art Projects: Cartooning. (And don’t miss the embedded video lesson at the back of the book!) Click the button below to download.

11 Incredible Homeschool Art Project Ideas

• Posted by by Maddie
• December 11, 2020

Finding engaging homeschool art projects within a child’s ability can be tough going. I was so excited to teach my children art when we first started homeschooling. However, the novelty quickly wore off when I found myself spending hours trawling the internet for ideas or spending $20 to create an art project which would last little more than 30 minutes.

Luckily, over the past few years, I’ve made some incredible friends in both the homeschool and blogging space. Together we’ve been able to share ideas and projects. What works and what doesn’t. In fact, it’s the value I recieved from many of these blogs as a new homeschooling mom which encouraged me to start one of my own.

Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!

NOTE: By saving this recipe, you agree to join our weekly recipes newsletter.

Today I’m so pleased to be partnering with 11 incredible bloggers to share their favourite homeschool art projects.

While all of these projects are art-based. Many of them have additional elements and educational experiences such as math and science. An in some cases, they overlap with basic life skills, such as the benefit of sunscreen (see project #1).

I’d love to know your favourite homeschool art project, let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to include it in this list. Meanwhile, don’t forget to bookmark this page so you can refer back to it for future art lesson plans.

1. Sunscreen Painting

This simple art project will wow your kids and show them just how important proper sun protection can be. And we’ll talk a little bit about how sunscreen works.

Most importantly, this project made it very easy for my kids to see what sunscreen does for us. That made it very worthwhile.

All you need for this basic homeschool art project is; sunscreen, a paint brush and some black construction paper.

You can use other dark colors but we’ve found that black works best.

2. Candy Science

This is such an easy and fun experiment and a great idea if you want to do something a little unique with your Skittles.

All you need is some Skittles and water to create some serious wow moments.

This experiment can be as simple or complex as you like. You can opt for a basic circle of color on a plate.

Alternatively, you can turn it into a smiley face and watch the colors melt and blend together.

The transformation is very pretty and happens quickly making this a satisfying and budget friendly science experiment.

3. Color Mixing

This color mixing activity comes with it’s very own printable (click the button below).

It’s a fantastic homeschool art project which demonstrates how colors mixed together create new, different colors.

The hands-on project makes it incredibly engaging – as a result I found my children absorbed the information better than simply watching this in a video or reading it in a text book.

You can create the color mixing chart using basic paints which you can get from the grocery store, online or from specialist art stores.

Alternatively, you can use food coloring. Which can lead to a number of other projects related to coloring edible foods.

4. Blow Painting

Blow painting with straws is a super easy and fun way to make abstract art with your kids.

It allows your kids to use their imagination and creativity and the resulting artwork always looks amazing.

This blow painting art activity is simple so even preschoolers can do it.

The beauty is that there is no right or wrong way to do this, so let your child explore what they can make with just some paint and straws.

5. Pointillism Leaf Art

Besides having tons of fun and enjoying some creative time, this Seurat inspired pointillism craft is an excellent opportunity to teach older kids a little about art history.

Alternatively, if you have toddlers or preschoolers, this Seurat inspired leaf craft can be a terrific way to help little ones start recognising colours and shapes!

Pointillism is a painting technique created by the French artist George Seurat. The purpose of the technique is to only use the point of the paintbrush.

6. Vegetables Paper Crafts

This paper craft vegetables activity is great because you can print the free template and offer this project to kids of all ages.

Little crafters will be able to make something fantastic with a little guidance. Older kids will love finding unique ways to use the fruit of their crafting labor!

The free template offers guidance for making cauliflower, cabbage, radishes, onion, and broccoli. 

This craft is also great alongside a larger discussion about the benefits and impacts of eating fruit and vegetables as part of a balanced diet.

7. Wooden Peg Animals

These wooden peg animals are incredibly colorful and super fun to make.

I love that they are practical and can be used as figures in winter scenes or as part of play.

You can create a variety of different animals. This particular theme was around arctic animals.

Much like the other crafts in this list, it opened up a discussion as to the impact the decisions we make on a daily basis is having on these animals environment and habitat.

8. Geometric Animal Art

Keeping with the trend of animal art, these geometric animal art projects are simply beautiful and can be easily framed and used as decor once completed.

Geometric art combines both art and mathematics which is great if you have a child who isn’t particularly fond of math but loves art projects.

Better still, you can design any animal you wish (even your very own pet) thanks to the fantastic online resources available.

9. Rainbow Walking Water

Much like the activity above, this art project combines art with another subject. In this case, it’s science.

I’m a huge fan of science because I think it helps us understand the world around us.

Kids are so inquisitive and hands-on, as a result I’ve found that science experiments help them to get an even better grasp of how things work around them.

This experiment isn’t messy or expensive. It doesn’t require any specialist equipment and doesn’t take long to set up / create.

The link in the button below even includes a printable which children can use to report their observations and think through what they are learning.

10. Seed Bombs

Making flower bombs is super easy and simple and it’s a fun project you can make with the kids.

This homeschool art project will get your children interested in gardening, in planting, caring for and tending for plants.

Simply put a garden seed bomb is compost ball or paper ball that is mixed with seeds.

Garden seed bombs can be placed in the garden or into a plant pot with soil.

Once the seeds begin to germinate and grow the seed bomb will slowly break apart and the seeds can continue to grow.

11. DIY Pop Art

This project was originally designed for a handmade father’s day gift.

However, it can just as easily be transformed into something else while maintaining the pop-art concept.

Depending on the child’s age you can use this homeschool art project as an introduction to the famous artist Andy Warhol who was perhaps the most famous leading figure in the pop art movement during the mid to late 1950s.

Like this recipe? Save it to your Pinterest board now!

Post navigation

A Look At Writing & Rhetoric

The Well Trained Mind Science Curriculum

Leave a comment, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Win a $100 gift card each day this month! 🎁

37 of Our Favorite Easy Art Projects for Kids

Get their creative juices flowing.

The stress of tests and social dynamics can prove challenging for students, and for this reason, they need an opportunity to express themselves freely. Art provides a powerful outlet for creative expression while also proving therapeutic. Plus, a good art project can be particularly effective at getting kids to unplug from their devices. A simple art project can even fill some of downtime during the day for early finishers. Regardless of whether you teach preschool or high school, there is an art project for everyone. So gather some art supplies and try one of these easy art projects for kids!

Easy Art Projects for Pre-K Students

1. paper bag jelly fish.

As far as easy art projects for kids go, this one is perfect for preschoolers since it works on their hand-eye coordination and their cutting skills in particular. In addition to paper bags and scissors or pinking shears, you will need some paints, paintbrushes, googly eyes, and glue. If you’re really feeling ambitious, you can grab some sparkles too!

Learn more: Paper Bag Jelly Fish at No Time for Flash Cards

2. Tissue Paper Apple

Since everyone associates apples with fall and the start of school, this will be the perfect craft to start the school year off on the right foot. Simply draw an apple outline on a piece of paper and have small red and green tissue paper squares ready to be crumpled and glued by tiny hands.

Learn more: Tissue Paper Apple at Burlap + Blue

3. Fork Print Tulips

This project is both cute and simple, requiring only a fork, some heavyweight paper, and some paints. This project would be especially perfect for a Mother’s Day gift.

Learn more: Fork Tulip at Toddler at Play

4. Paper Bag Monster

First, paint the bag any color you want. Once dry, cut out shapes from card stock and assemble your monster!

Learn more: Paper Bag Monster Puppets at I Heart Crafty Things

5. Paper Plate Lion

All you need to re-create this adorable lion is orange and black paint, paintbrushes, paper plates, and scissors. Grab some Popsicle sticks to glue to the back and you’ll have a ferocious puppet show on your hands in no time!

Learn more: Paper Plate Lion at My Bored Toddler

6. Popsicle Stick Rainbow

Grab some blue card stock, cotton circles, and Popsicle sticks and have your students work on their gluing skills. This craft will prove effective at teaching little ones their colors. Choose either colored Popsicle sticks or have kids color them themselves.

Learn more: Popsicle Stick Rainbow at My Bored Toddler

7. Paper Plate Octopus

Kids love octopuses, especially adorable ones like these! This craft would be perfect for little ones still learning to count since they have a whopping eight legs to make.

Learn more: Paper Plate Octopus at Simple Every Day Mom

8. Macaroni Necklace

A staple of many of our childhoods, macaroni necklaces work on the dexterity of little fingers while also making perfect gifts. Add in some large beads as well for variety.

Learn more: DIY Macaroni Necklaces at Made To Be a Mama

Easy Art Projects for Elementary School Students

9. paper plate snake.

Have your students paint a paper plate with watercolors and then once dry, help them cut it in a swirl shape. Finally, add some googly eyes.

Learn more: Colorful Paper Plate Snakes at Pink Stripey Socks

10. Paper Roll Koala

This super-cute koala would make an adorable desk buddy since it stands up on its own. Kids will enjoy personalizing their koala’s face!

Learn more: Paper Roll Koala at Arty Crafty Kids

11. Leaf Pattern Drawing

We just love art projects that fill the entire page, and this one certainly fits the bill. The combination of crayon and watercolor paint create this multi-dimensional leaf print.

Learn more: Leaf Pattern at Art Projects for Kids

12. Woven Rainbow Fish

This project is perfect for working on students’ hand-eye coordination while being a cursory introduction to sewing. It’s challenging enough for even upper elementary school students while still being relatively simple.

Learn more: Rainbow Fish at Crafty Morning

13. Thumbprint Bugs

These thumbprint doodles are just so sweet and would perfectly complement a science lesson all about bugs. After having students try their hand at some of the thumbprint examples, let them use their imagination to see what other ideas they can cook up. You can even have them create bug jars out of card stock to put their new friends in!

Learn more: Thumbprint Bugs via Toot’s Mom Is Tired

14. Umbrella With Rain

Another fun art project that is really affordable to create since you only need paper plates, some paints, a roll of string, and some blue beads. We just love this clever approach to creating raindrops!

Learn more: Umbrella With Rain at Easy Peasy and Fun

15. Popsicle Stick Pencil

Nothing says back to school more than a cute pencil-themed craft. Have students add their names to them and then use them to decorate a September bulletin board in your classroom.

Learn more: Popsicle Stick Pencil at Crafty Morning

16. Craft Stick Airplane

Kids will unquestionably go crazy over these clothespin-and-Popsicle-stick airplanes. Regardless of whether they choose paint or permanent markers, students will enjoy personalizing their tiny flying machines.

Learn more: Craft Stick Airplane at Making Life Blissful

17. Pom-Pom Caterpillars

Since kids love pom-poms and caterpillars, this will be the perfect craft to grab their attention. Make sure to supply them with a fun variety of pom-poms and googly eyes.

Learn more: Pom-Pom Caterpillar at Easy Peasy and Fun

Easy Art Projects for Middle School Students

18. chalk christmas lights.

This is the perfect easy art project to do around the holiday season. You’ll need to create a stencil from card stock so you can create your light shapes. Once that is done, you can begin creating “light” with some chalk pastels. A silver Sharpie can be used to create your light string since it will show up nicely against the black paper.

Learn more: Christmas Light Chalk Stencil Art at Buggy and Buddy

19. Gratitude Journal

This project doubles as an art and writing activity since students can use their finished journals for writing prompts. These personalized journals beat store-bought ones any day!

Learn more: Handmade Gratitude Journal at Kids Activities Blog

20. Textured Hot-Air Balloon

This project is the perfect excuse to use up all your crafty odds and ends like feathers, glitter, and sequins. We love how unique each creation will be once they’re done.

Learn more: Textured Hot-Air Balloon at Artsy Momma

21. Layer Cakes

Regardless of students’ experience with oil pastels, this project will be a good introduction to the medium. Have students follow a step-by-step tutorial for drawing the outline of the layer cake, then let them use the pastels to bring their drawings to life.

Learn more: Cakes at Little Yeti

22. Chalk Planets

This is an inexpensive way to enhance a science unit on space while still getting creative. It’s inexpensive too since all you will need is some black paper and chalk.

Learn more: 18 Awesome Art Projects for Your Classroom at Teach Junkie

23. Back-to-School Rocks

Kids love painting rocks so why not make it school-themed? Show students some of these examples to copy or let them come up with some of their own, then spread them around the school’s grounds.

Learn more: Painted Rock Ideas at Color Made Happy

24. Dictionary Page Drawing

Easy art projects for kids that also double as vocabulary lessons? Yes, please! This project will prove especially educational as students are tasked with illustrating a word on an old dictionary page.

25. Paper Collage Painting

Students will enjoy creating their collages from a variety of materials. Even better—this project is a great way to encourage recycling since old cereal boxes and other food labels can be ripped into strips and repurposed.

Learn more: Painting With Paper at Megan Coyle Artist & Illustrator

26. Crayon Resist Art

This simple project can be done without a lot of instruction and will work for students of any age. This project runs on the same idea as some Easter egg–decorating kits in that the paint or dye sticks to the areas not covered in wax, or in this case, crayon.

Learn more: Fun Watercolor Resist Art at Kids Activities Blog

27. Number Art

If you have some math whizzes in your class, they will likely enjoy this number-themed art project. Grab some large number stencils and paints and you’ll be ready for this low-setup project.

Learn more: 5th Grade Number Project at Art Room Blog

28. Woven Baby Turtle

Select three mini Popsicle sticks, paint them, and then glue them together to form your turtle’s body. Finally, select your yarn and weave it around your turtle. Be sure to have a lot of fun colors to choose from!

Learn more: Weaving Cute Baby Turtles at Pink Stripey Socks

Easy Art Projects for High School Students

29. yarn-wrapped letter.

All you will need to create this craft is some leftover cardboard, a bunch of different yarns, and some scissors. Teens especially will enjoy this project as the end result can be used as decoration in their bedrooms and eventually their dorm rooms!

Learn more: 14 Crafts for Teens and Tweens at Art Bar Blog

30. Elevated Macaroni Necklace

Some easy art projects for kids and teens can even double as fashion! Despite their association with preschool, these are definitely not your little brother’s or sister’s macaroni necklaces. Swapping out twine with an actual chain makes these necklaces look surprisingly high-end.

Learn more: 12 Pasta Necklaces We Need Right Now at Mum’s Grapevine

31. Neuro Doodle Design

This is a simple and mindful art project that can be enjoyed by students regardless of their art experience. This art process was invented by Russian psychologist and architect Pavel Piskarev in 2014.

Learn more: Simple Mindful Art Project at Inside Out Art Teacher

32. Crepe Paper Flowers

This is the perfect project for early finishers to do since each flower only takes 5 minutes to create. In addition to being a fun project, these flowers would also make for beautiful classroom decor.

Learn more: Easy Crepe Paper Flowers at DIY Candy

33. CD Fish

Easy art projects for kids that utilize outdated technology? Why not? Although this project could work for any age group, older kids will be able to personalize their fish using a variety of add-on materials. Be prepared to explain to your students what CDs are since they were born long after their demise!

Learn more: Make Your Own Fish Aquarium at Super Simple

34. Pencil Sculpture

While this project can get complicated, simpler structures can be completed using fewer pencils. The preparation is minimal, requiring just a bunch of pencils and elastics, but the reward will be big when you see what your students create!

Learn more: Geometric Sculpture From 72 Pencils at Instructables

35. Ribbon Garland

This project is another good time-filler since it can be worked on and then picked up again later and continued. It’s also a good lesson in recycling since you can ask students to bring in any fabric or ribbons that may be sitting around their houses unused.

Learn more: Easy DIY Fabric Garland at Project Nursery

36. Origami

Origami paper is inexpensive and can be bought in bulk, making this an affordable and low-preparation art project. Additionally, it is perfect for high school students who are better equipped to follow along with an instructional video.

Learn more: 12 Origami Projects for Kids at Mom Loves Best

37. Layered Landscape

Keep those cereal boxes and old magazines since they’re perfect for ripping up to create layered art! We especially love how much room there is in this project for individual creativity.

Learn more: Layered Landscape at Art Camp Studio

What are your favorite easy art projects to do in the classroom? Come and share your ideas in our  We Are Teachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook.

Plus,  get ideas for great auction art projects .

You Might Also Like

25 Unique Art Projects for Middle Schoolers

It's time to get creative! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

FREE MOM HACKS BOOK 🖤 A week of meals, activities & tips planned for you! →

15 Homework Organization and Art Display Ideas

By Becky Mansfield

Aug 18, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy .

School may be different this year, and if we’re not ready or organized, things can quickly become chaotic. Papers, homework, and artwork everywhere!    Luckily, we’ve put together some clever homework organization ideas as well as a cute homework station and ways to display your kids’ artwork.

1). If you have space, a designated homework station is a lifesaver. You don’t have to worry about papers and school supplies getting scattered all throughout the house because everything is right where you and your kids need it.

2). Keep a homework box handy with the supplies your child needs to complete homework without distractions.

4). I love this backpack and homework center . No backpacks littering the floor, and each child has cubbies for shoes or books.  Paperwork can go in baskets up top, too! 

5 ). Use a curtain wire to hang your children’s art and craft projects. Check out the vertical and horizontal pockets on her walls, too, for managing incoming papers and homework!

9).   You don’t have to get fancy with homework organization. One practical tip is to use magnetic clips for each child to keep their homework on the fridge . Simple, but effective. 

• Print it out.
• Hang it up with a clip.
• Take it off to work on it.
• Complete it. Submit it.  

10).  If you homeschool (or if your kids just need extra practice) individual work binders can be a huge help. Brilliant!

Parent Organization (for checking homework):

1). What’s missing from many homework stations? A parent basket! What a great way to keep up with papers that you have to hang on to for a while.

2). You’re a busy mom, so you may not have time to process those papers right away. An organizing basket works well!  Have a 2 or 3 spot hanging file: 1). “Please check”    2). “Working on it”   3). “Done” hanging caddy may be just what you need.  

3). Individual cork boards are a smart idea, too.  Process the papers right away when the kids get home from school, and homework, spelling words, etc. are pinned to the child’s corkboard. 

4). My favorite one is more of a keepsake idea.  Every year you’ll have a handful of things that you want to save for each child. Start a file storage system now with a folder for each grade .

Other Helpful Homework Ideas

Categorized as: Organize your Kid’s things! , The Home

I’m Becky, a former elementary school teacher turned certified child development therapist and blogger. I work at home with my husband and together we are raising (and partially homeschooling) our four children in the Carolinas. I love diet coke, ice cream, and spending time with my family.

You May Also Like

Spring Cleaning Checklist (free printable)

House & Home

30-Day Declutter Challenge (just a few minutes each day!)

YourModernFamily

35 Things to Give Up for Lent (new unique ideas!)

Clutter Affects Your Life – Learn How to Declutter Your Home today!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Hi Becky! Thank you for featuring the backpack and paper organizer, but that originally came from Pneumatic Addict’s blog. She did a guest post on my blog, but it originally appeared on her blog. Thanks!

Thanks for letting me know!! 🙂

What great organizational ideas. I love the printable homework sheet. That should help my son stay more organized. I am pinning it now. Thanks!

©2024 Your Modern Family. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy • Powered by CultivateWP .

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

TheHomeSchoolMom

Homeschooling help and encouragement from experienced homeschoolers - find out how homeschooling works and how to start, get tips & ideas for when things need adjusting, read curriculum reviews before buying, learn how online schools work, gain confidence about homeschooling high school, and more.

• Subscriber Exclusives
• Homeschooling 101
• Homeschool Blog
• Deschooling
• Homeschooling Styles
• Homeschooling High School
• Help by Subject
• Curriculum Reviews
• Local & State
• Homeschool Planner
• Meal Plans & Recipes

Art enriches children's lives and their learning. Whether they are experiencing the joy of creating their own unique work or are learning about artists, children build skills and knowledge from having artistic opportunities.

Homeschool families have the opportunity to explore art in so many ways. You can encourage your kids to:

• Make art for art's sake—so they can experience creating!
• Make art as a way to learn about other subjects
• Make art as a lead-in to building handwriting skill
• Learn to use common art techniques in their own artwork
• Learn about artists, media, techniques, art history, and the current art world—"art appreciation!"

Homeschool Art Activities

Free art curriculum & lesson plans, art museum resources, art history curriculum, art projects, additional reading about teaching art.

Try these ideas to incorporate more art into your homeschooling:

• Make art together. Practice basic art techniques alongside your children, and sit down with them to create art at the same table together. For example, this video has three fun and easy watercolor techniques to try with kids . Watch the video, gather some basic art supplies, and set aside time to create with the kids.
• Add drawing to read-alouds. When you read aloud, encourage the kids to draw a scene based on what you're reading. Or you can all listen to an audiobook, and you can draw a scene, too. This practice builds comprehension and attention to detail, and it keeps hands busy during read-alouds. It might even be an early precursor to "taking notes." Consider giving each child a sketchbook just for their read-aloud sketches—think of all those book drawings in one place! (These are great to share with an evaluator if annual assessments are required in your state, too).
• Encourage kids to create drawings or other art pieces to go with history lessons.
• Help kids learn about an artist who lived during a historic time period you are studying. They could even learn about artists' depictions of historical events.
• Create a history timeline, and have kids add drawings to the timeline to illustrate the history.
• Study the folk art and crafts of the historic time period you are learning about with the kids.
• Explore an event or period through its art. Picturing America from PBS LearningMedia explores seven periods of American history through art.
• Ask your kids to create colorful maps for the places they are learning about.
• Learn together about the artists and artistic traditions of specific countries and regions around the world.
• Science:  Help your kids learn about the practice of nature journaling  and begin spending more time outdoors with them, chronicling observations together.
• Math: Do math-related art projects, such as those suggested by What Do We Do All Day?  Tessellations, patterns, symmetry, fractals, and Möbius strips can all be both mathy and artistic!
• Visit art exhibits and meet artists. Art museums and galleries can be a revelation to children. Museums might arrange a discount for your homeschool group. Have kids take their sketchbooks in case they want to try to sketch some of the artwork they see displayed. Take your kids to talk and listen to local artists, artists who are in residence at a university, and artists who may be exhibiting their work nearby.
• Look for art. Where is art displayed that it might not be expected? Help your kids take note of street sculptures, artwork in libraries and medical offices, and downtown murals. Is graffiti art? Are screen-printed tee shirts art? Talk about it!
• Do picture study. Educator Charlotte Mason advocated that homeschooling families do "picture study" of various artists to become familiar with their work. Simply Charlotte Mason has an informative video on how to do picture study with your family. 
• Make books together.  When pre-literate children tell a story, write the story down and have them draw pictures to illustrate. Bind the pages together into a little book. As children become interested in letters and words, allow them to copy or write portions of the words to go with the pictures.
• Encourage digital art. Consider purchasing digital art software for a tablet or computer so your kids and teens can create digital drawings, paintings, and more.
• Consider the impact of AI.  Teens and some tweens enjoy learning about current events and controversy around most any topic. Ask them to research the impact of AI on artists and to propose a policy that would meet artists' concerns about AI-produced art.

Tips for success:

• Get the art supplies. Provide kids with good art materials and tools. Do some research if you're not sure what is good enough quality. Visiting an art supply store can help get you started. It's easier to stay on a budget if you get materials and tools for one medium at a time. Keep art supplies in reach and have a place for kids to work.
• Get the craft supplies.  You'll also want to keep craft supplies on hand. Don't forget your kids can up-cycle many around-the-house items and create crafts with them. Your kids may be able to create with milk cartons, paper towel rolls, cereal boxes, and paper bags, as described in this article about up-cycling activities from PBS kids. 
• Show interest rather than approval. When your child is creating art, focus on noticing details more than on making evaluative remarks. For example, you could say, "I see you used two different colors for the wings" rather than "good job on the wings." Even positive praise can have a surprisingly negative impact on creativity, as a child learns to wait on your approval rather than responding to your interest and curiosity.
• Go beyond visual arts.  As you and your children explore what we typically think of as "art," also point out other types of art and discuss them. Include fashion, film, music, fiber arts, architecture, theater, creative writing, photography, and more.
• Don't overvalue representational art. When kids make art during their earliest years, they are not typically sensitive about whether their artwork is "realistic." Parents and non-artists, though, are frequently excited about art that depicts reality accurately. They may heap on the praise for how "real" a drawing looks. As kids get older and become more aware of any inability to render art work that "looks real," they may become discouraged and even quit drawing. Remember to value the originality of the creation.
• Frame and display. Show off your kids' and teens' artwork in your home!
• Y—Young (PreK-3rd)
• M—Middle (4th-6th)
• O—Older (7th-12th)
• T—Teacher Resources

Julianna Kunstler Comprehensive Art Curriculum    (M,O,T) Julianna Kunstler is a high school art teacher who has generously made her curriculum available online for free. You can find lessons, slides, handouts, exercises, and step-by-step tutorials covering the elements of art and design (line, shape, color, balance, contrast, perspective, etc.) - and skill-building for specific art media (painting and drawing, digital art, ceramics, sculpture, digital photography, mixed media, and printmaking). Also included are a comprehensive art history class, complete with worksheets and slides, and a special needs art class collection of resources. The courses are designed for multi-year study.

Visual Arts Comprehensive I (O) This full online curriculum from Georgia Virtual Learning covers What is Art?;  Elements and Principles of Arts; Drawing What You See; Aesthetics, Art Criticism and Art History; From 2D to 3D; and Color as Communication.

AP Art History (O) This is a full online curriculum from Georgia Virtual Learning.

Drawing I and Drawing II (O) These are full online curricula from Georgia Virtual Learning.

Photography I (O) This is a full online curriculum from Georgia Virtual Learning.

Arty Factory Lessons and Tutorials    (Y,M,O) Arty Factory offers design theory lessons and a broad range of illustrated, step-by-step tutorials for Aboriginal Art, African Masks, Ancient Egyptian Art, Still Life, Pencil, Colored Pencil, Charcoal, Painting, Perspective, Pen and Ink, and more. Also included are comprehensive Art Appreciation educational pages covering various time periods and styles of artwork.

Composition in Painting (O) In this four-lesson curriculum unit from EDSITEment, students are introduced to composition in the visual arts, including design principles, such as balance, symmetry , and  repetition , as well as one of the formal elements:  line .

Getty Museum Curricula and Teaching Guides (Y,M,O,T) This robust collection contains multi-lesson curricula on a wide range of art and art history subjects.

Free Udemy Art Lessons (O) Choose from several free art lessons on the Udemy platform.

Allegory in Painting (O,T) "Although your students probably associate the word allegory with works of literature, such as Edmund Spenser's  The Faerie Queen  or George Orwell's  Animal Farm , they may be less familiar with the application of allegory to the visual arts. This lesson plan introduces students to allegory in the visual arts through the works of a number of well-known artists, including Thomas Cole and Caravaggio." From EDSITEment

Horse of a Different Color: Introduction to Color in the Visual Arts (O) "In this curriculum unit students will be introduced to the importance and effect of color in the visual arts. Why do artists use particular colors in their compositions? The activities in this lesson will guide students towards a greater understanding of the ways in which color can focus the viewer's attention, give the illusion of depth in a two-dimensional medium, and affect the tone and mood of an artwork." From EDSITEment

Blick Art Supply Lesson Plans (Y,M,O,T) Dozens of lesson plans using a variety of media and techniques

Video Playlist: Elements of Art Unit (O) This playlist from Miacademy with 26 videos from 10-15 minutes each covers the basic elements of art and includes a culminating project.

Videos: Creative Cricket    (Y,M) Creative Cricket makes fun, educational art videos for kids. Each video is designed to teach and inspire young artists to draw, illustrate, and think critically. Creative Cricket lessons strengthen children's minds and spark a life-long love of art. Videos feature loosely instructional steps on how to draw, color, illustrate. Each lesson comes packed with useful fun-facts and dialogue for the whole family. Great for all types of learners.

Google Arts & Culture    (Y,M,O,T) Google Arts & Culture is collaboration of various museums, universities, and other cultural institutions. You can take virtual tours of museums around the world, find digital exhibitions on just about any topic, play games, take quizzes, find coloring pages, and tons more.

Museum of Modern Art Teacher Resources    (Y,M,O,T) MoMA offers online courses designed for K-12 classroom teachers and any other educators who want to learn about modern and contemporary art and develop their pedagogical skills. The site provides short lesson plans on different types of art styles, audio clips discussing different art collections, videos, a glossary of art terms, and more. Topics covered include: Art & Inquiry: Museum Teaching Strategies for Your Classroom, Art & Activity: Interactive Strategies for Engaging with Art, and Art & Ideas: Teaching with Themes.

Museum of International Folk Art Lesson Plans    (Y,M,O,T) The Museum of International Folk Art offers lessons based on folk art from Africa, Indonesia, India, Japan, Latin America, and more. Some of the lessons are offered in both English and Spanish. For grades K-12.

Museum of International Folk Art DIY Projects    (Y,M,O,T) A collection of DIY art projects based on world cultures from the Museum of International Folk Art.

The Kennedy Center Resource Library    (Y,M,O,T) The Kennedy Center offers students and educators a broad range of educational resources. You can find lessons, activities, talks, performances, and more covering music, dance, media art, performance art, theater, visual arts, women in the arts, indigenous arts, world arts, and much more.

National Gallery of Art Learning Resources    (Y,M,O,T) The National Gallery of Art offers teaching guides, unit studies, lessons, activities, videos, handouts and digital interactives for students of all ages. Topics cover specific artists, arts from various cultures, various styles of art, art history, the elements of art, and introductions to different art media, including drawing, photography, sculpture, and printmaking.

Victoria and Albert Museum Art, Craft, and Design Resources    (M,O,T) The Victoria and Albert Museum has a large collection of lesson plans for students ages 11-18, covering calligraphy, architecture, fashion, textile art, photography, and jewelry, as well as arts from around the world.

San Jose Museum of Art Resources    (Y,M,T) The San Jose Museum of Art offers a large collection of video tutorials, lessons, activities, talks, and a virtual tours for students, parents, and art educators.

San Diego Museum of Art Tutorials    (Y,M,O) “SDMA Art Tutorials are a series of instructional videos that demonstrate a new art skill, technique, or material inspired by works of art in the Museum’s permanent collection. Whether you’re a beginner or a master artist, come learn from Museum educators with SDMA Art Tutorials!” Covers optical illusions, meditation drawing, pattern, etching, still life, calligraphy, and more.

Met Museum Lesson Plans    (Y,M,O,T) The Met Museum offers a range of art history lessons from around the world that look at various types of art – from ancient armor and architecture to sculpture and textiles.

The MET Kids    (Y,M) The Metropolitan Museum of Art has an educational kids website where students can take a virtual tour of the Museum, explore the museum’s collection of art by time period, style, or media, and find a large collection of kid-friendly videos featuring talks and tutorials. Tutorials include carving, mosaic, stained glass, ceramics, weaving, printmaking, animation, fashion design, and more.

National Gallery of Art Teacher Resources    (T) The National Gallery of Art's Division of Education offers online teaching units, digital teaching packets, and an additional library of teaching packets that can be borrowed.

Museum Coloring Pages    (M,O) For adults and teens (preview for suitability), these coloring pages feature items from collections of various art museums, history museums, and libraries. From My Modern Met.

Exploratorium    (Y,M,O,T) The museum of science, art and human perception. Online since 1993, the Exploratorium was one of the first science museums to build a site on the World Wide Web. The site contains over 18 thousand award-winning Web pages, activities, and videos, exploring hundreds of different topics.

Vatican Museums Online    (Y,M,O,T) View the collections of dozens of museums on the MVSEI VATICANI website. Read about the artworks and Zoom into the details of paintings, frescoes and artworks from different eras of the Italian Peninsula from the Romans to the Renaissance.

Free Art History "Textbook" (O,T) Reframing Art History is an open-access multimedia art history "textbook" from SmartHistory. Chapters were developed by a group of more than 40 experts, and the course showcases art and history from the bottom up. The website has additional resources for educators, including syllabi submitted by other teachers using Reframing Art History as a textbook.

Khan Academy Art History Course (O) Full art history course covering prehistoric art through the art of today as well as themes in art history, art of world regions, and a special unit for At Risk Cultural Heritage Education Series (ARCHES). An AP/College Art History course is also available.

Video: Art Through Time: A Global View    (Y,M,O,T) From the Annenberg Learner, a series of video programs on art across the world, art through history, and more, covering a wide variety of styles and how art changes in different environments.

Video Playlist: Crash Course Art History   (O) Learn about art history—the study of objects and images to understand their meaning and the people, places, and times they come from—in this 22-episode playlist. Sarah Urist Green will teaches how to analyze and evaluate art, draw connections between different cultures and time periods, and ask big questions about how history gets made. The playlist is partially based on the AP Art History curriculum and that of an introductory university-level course.

Crash Course Art History Preview

Tate Kids    (Y,M) “Play free games and quizzes, find art activities, explore homework help and share your art with Tate Kids. The best art website for kids.”

Artist Quest    (Y,M,O,T) This site provides an extensive database of artists with short biographies and images of their more famous works. Provides a question guide for students to answer to help retain knowledge about each artist.

LEGO® Madness    (Y,M) Want to motivate your kids to turn off the computer and television this summer? Send them to this website and their play area will be strewn with LEGO® pieces before you know it. Eric Harshbarger has created hundreds of sculptures and mosaics using LEGO® pieces. Photos of them (some with multiple views) are posted on his website, along with a detailed FAQ to satisfy the curiosity of inspired artists-to-be.

KinderArt    (Y) Despite its name, KinderArt is not just a resource for primary grades. Whether you are looking for drawing lessons for your middle schooler or multi-cultural holiday crafts for any age, KinderArt is the place to look. The site includes lesson plans and project ideas.

Teach Art at Home    (Y,M,O,T) An excellent resource by an art teacher includes a monthly newsletter, free online projects, lesson plans, articles on teaching methods, and more!

The Imagination Factory - Recycling Art Projects    (Y,M,O,T) Kids at Art is a website dedicated to teaching how to use recycling in art. In addition to many projects, the site includes an exploration of various artwork around the country.

Video Playlist: Art Class   (Y,M) This playlist from Miacademy contains 16 short (5-minute) videos with a variety of projects.

As featured on

Fantastic Summer Homework Ideas for High Schoolers

If your high schoolers are anything like my high schoolers, they love spending time talking about how bored they are. Yet for whatever reason, that talk never turns into action. Nothing seems to change at the end of the year, as kids are making plans for what they will be doing, or not be doing, over the summer. I always enjoy making an addition to their plans–a little bit of summer homework from their (not always) favorite art teacher. For me, there are always a few of ways to go about it–required summer homework and optional summer homework.

Required Work

For my students who will be in AP Studio Art , I require that they complete 2 projects over the summer that are “portfolio-worthy”. I type out assignment sheets for 3 projects with in-depth explanations. However, each of the three has enough open-endedness within a theme to allow students room for expression and personal voice. If students don’t like any of those 3 projects, or don’t want to do them, I allow them to complete projects of their own choosing. As long as the quality is there, I am open to just about any idea they bring to me.

Photography List

In addition, I send AP students home for the summer with a checklist of photography subjects. The photos students take are referenced and utilized throughout the year in a myriad of projects. The more images they come in with, the better. Many students end up using the cameras on their phones, which is OK because the quality doesn’t have to be stellar. The idea here is not for the photos to serve as the art project, per se; the idea is to have a library of images that can serve as backgrounds, design elements, and inspiration for them come fall.

You can download my 3-page PDF list by clicking the image below, or get a customized Word version by clicking here .

Download Now

Optional Work

For the rest of my students, summer homework is optional. I have a list of projects that I give to whoever may want it, and to a few others that I think might just take on the challenge. These are more lighthearted, fun projects that could take all kinds of different directions. I think it goes without saying, but if kids enjoy the work they are doing, they are more likely to complete it.

Here are a few ideas I like to use:

• Have a friend pose for you. In 20 minutes draw 20 poses. Go!
• Create a drawing or painting inspired by song lyrics or a piece of writing.
• Create a time-lapse video of you working on a drawing or sculpture.
• Sculpt your favorite food out of mud or sand. Photograph it from multiple angles.
• Visit someplace colorful–a farmer’s market, a flower shop, a candy store, or a museum. Make art inspired by the location.

Media Consumption

Lastly, I love to have students take the time to look up interesting artists using not only books and websites, but videos and other media. Artists my students really respond to are Banksy, Robert Longo, Maya Lin, Cheeming Boey, Kara Walker, James Turrell, and Kehinde Wiley. The Art 21 series from PBS is also a great resource. The key is to make the artist interesting enough that kids want to look at more of their work and learn more about the art being made.

Whether your students are making work because they want to or making work because they have to, summer homework is a great avenue to keep them involved and engaged over the summer. There is undoubtedly a challenge in seeing that work is actually completed, but if it is, students come back to the next school year with renewed energy, more confidence, and hopefully a little better understanding of their own art and the art of others.

Do you assign summer homework? Why or why not?

What summer homework assignments have been successful for you?

Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

Timothy Bogatz

Tim Bogatz is AOEU’s Content & PD Event Manager and a former AOEU Writer and high school art educator. He focuses on creativity development, problem-solving, and higher-order thinking skills in the art room.

Ways AI Can Make Your Art Teacher Job Easier for Planning and Assessment

Art and Appetite: 7 Ways to Explore the Significance of Food in the Art Room

7 Engaging Ways to Teach the Elements and Principles of Art and 3 Fun Ways to Review Them

10 Easy Strategies to Apply Brain-Based Learning in the Art Room

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• About Art Class Curator
• Media & Press
• Programs for Schools
• Member Login
• Search this website

Art Class Curator

Hands-on and Minds-curious Art Learning

New Art Criticism Book Available for Pre-Order - Experience Art 🖼️📕

47: teaching art from home: creative online learning ideas.

Teachers around the world are taking their lessons online. Teaching art from home is a challenge, but when we work together, it gets a lot easier. Learn about some of the free distance learning resources art teachers are sharing in this episode.

Subscribe in Your Favorite Podcast Listening App

• You Need Art Challenge
• Curated Connections Library
• Call to Art: An Un-Conference for Art Educators
• The SPARK Framework
• Mr. Calvert’s Art Room Artist of the Day videos
• Preschool Steam
• Google Folder with Lessons started by Artful Artsy Amy

Hello and welcome to The Art Class Curator Podcast. I am Cindy Ingram, your host and the founder of Art Class Curator and the Curated Connections Library. We’re here to talk about teaching art with purpose and inspiration from the daily delight to creativity to the messy mishaps that come with being a teacher. Whether you’re driving home from school or cleaning up your classroom for the 15th time today, take a second, take a deep breath, relax those shoulders and let’s get started.

Hello everybody. It’s Cindy Ingram from Art Class Curator, and I am back with another bathroom episode of The Art Class Curator Podcast because that is the quietest place in my house right now to record an episode. My husband is working from home and we are sharing an office. And usually I kick him out when I want to make recordings, but I could not do that because he has a meeting at the same time so we’re here in the bathroom. That’s life now.

I want to, first, in this episode share with you a couple of things we’ve got going on with Art Class Curator that we’re super excited about. And then I want to talk about a lot of the creative ideas that I have been seeing with the online learning thing because a lot of us are now being forced to take our classrooms online. I talked last week a little bit about the importance of connecting with your students, calling them, making sure you’re checking in, and not as much about the curriculum.

What I want to talk about today is more about your curriculum and the ideas that you might be doing or using. And I have to say I have been blown away this week with… Well, I’ll be posting this episode on Monday. It’s Friday right now. Nothing like waiting until the last minute, but I have just really been blown away this week with the creativity and the love and just the creative problem-solving that I’m seeing with teachers and educators administration across the world. It’s really, really blown me away.

There was a time this week even that… The district that my kids go to are starting their online learning next week and I was watching a video that my daughter’s middle school was posting just about laptop checkout. They have Chromebooks at their school that they use and so we could go pick them up. And I was just like, right in the middle of that video… It’s a pretty short video, but they were cute about it and they were being silly and the assistant principal was dancing in the background. And I was like, you know what? I just got an immense wave of gratitude for all of these people who are… I’m starting to tear up about it now. But all these people who are out here solving problems. How are we getting kids fed? How are we getting kids educated? How are we supporting the mental needs of the kids and emotional needs of the kids? They’re thinking through all of this.

And it’s such a burden on all of us, but it’s also just, I cannot be more grateful to all of the teachers and administrators out there that are going through this for the sake of our kids. And I know you’re worried and you would rather be in there with them, but I know that our kids are in such good hands. I really do. So thank you for all you’re doing. If you don’t hear that enough, thank you so much. We’re all too going to get a sense of gratitude from parents who realize all that we do and maybe teachers are going to be seen in a new light coming soon, so we’ll see.

Alright. Well, let’s move on before I start crying about how amazing you all are more because I already have tears on my face, so I’m going to move on. The first thing I want to tell you about is we are putting on an online conference. I have to tell you, the last episode that I made, I came here and I didn’t know what I was going to say and I just sort of started talking because I think I needed to verbally process everything. I was in a really state of like flight, fight or freeze. Last week I was in freeze. I was just terrified. And what I did to get out of that is I just kind of processed it through the podcast and that really helped shake out some of the anxiety that I was feeling and sent me into kind of a plan of action.

We created our Instagram challenge, which I told you about last week. I am loving the Instagram challenge. It is just totally giving me life. Go to my Instagram, instagram.com/artclasscurator to get the You Need Art Challenge. Everyday we’re posting a new challenge. We’re taking a break over the weekend because we realize this thing’s not going away, so we might as well pace ourselves a little bit. But the challenge have been anywhere from painting with coffee to posing like Chinese sculptures to finding artworks that make you feel. We’re just really giving a wide range of types of things that you can do with students, and you can take those challenges and send them to your kids. In our minds when we’re creating those, I’m thinking, “Okay, can a child do this too?’ My daughter has been having fun. We can get the challenges too in thinking about what she would do. She hasn’t actually done any of them yet. I’m not making them do any schoolwork this week, so anywho.

The other thing which I started to say… I’m a little bit

squirrely right now, but, is we’re putting on a conference. So NAEA was canceled. I was set to present twice in NAEA and I know a lot of people really look forward to NAEA as a place to connect and see your colleagues and feel less alone, actually get relevant professional development instead of the things that we’re stuck into at our school districts. And I just was feeling a big void with that. I had already started to talk to some of my friends who were going to be there. We were already starting to make plans and then instead we got the rug swept out from underneath us.

What I decided to do was to throw together an unconference, a virtual conference, a virtual online summit where a lot of people can come together, share ideas with presentations and fill a little bit of that gap that we are feeling with the cancellation of NAEA. This is not an NAEA program, but it’s something to help us feel a little bit like we can get some of that back.

This conference is called Call to Art, an Unconference for Art Educators. You can register at artclasscurator.com/calltoart. And if you forget, just go to Art Class Curator and this will be in the show notes. You can also check any of our social media and you’ll find links to it there too. And it is a free conference. For the entire week of March 30th through April 3rd, we will have three to five or more depending on if I get some more presenters, which I’ll tell you about in a minute, online sessions.

Everybody’s recording their presentations and you’ll have access to them all week and the following week, and we will have some areas for chatting about the content in our Facebook group. It’s just a really a fun way to pull together, share ideas and I’m super, super excited about it. I already have, I think, 18 presenters at the time of recording, although I am getting more. So if you are interested in presenting at Call to Art, please send me an email to [email protected]. There is a form. If you’re on our email list you would have gotten the link to the form when we announced it, but you can also send me an email if you can’t find that and I’ll also put a link in the show notes.

But if you have a topic to share, anything related to teaching art, especially anything related to online teaching, but it doesn’t have to be just online teaching. I left it open so that we could have a range of types of things because you’re going to go back in the classroom eventually, so a lot of it we can still learn from each other too. I’m super excited. Please join us at artclasscurator.com/calltoart. Again, it’s a free conference and it starts a week from when I post this podcast. And so that will be on March the 30th that it begins. Super, super exciting.

Okay, so let’s talk about the content of today’s lesson. First, I want to share with you what I’m recommending for how to do an online lesson. I think this is an amazing, amazing opportunity to incorporate, and of course you know I’m going to say this because I’m Art Class Curator, is to incorporate more works of art into your classroom because your students might not have access to all their art supplies. You’re not there to help them with their art technique, that you can only do so much when you’re separated from them. However, they can interpret art, they can connect with art, and you can use this as an opportunity to do that.

What we’re recommending in the membership of the Curated Connections Library is to take our artwork of the week lesson. We have over a hundred of these lessons, artwork of the week lessons, and in them there’s a PowerPoint, there’s a lesson plan, there’s like three to five engagement activities related to them, and then there’s extensions that are like art project ideas too. And all of the worksheets for the engagement activities are in there, which are in DOC format and PDF format, so they’re really easily transferred into Google Docs with that Word Doc.

And so what we’re recommending is you pick an artwork for your week and then you, on day one, you introduce the artwork and have them do what we call The Spark Framework. And The Spark Framework is from Art Class Curator, and I’ll link to it in the show notes, but it’s see, perceive, ask an answer, reflect and know. And so they interpret the art with those prompts. There’s a worksheet that you can use, and so you do that on the first day. And then like days two and maybe three, you have them do one of the engaging activities. Maybe it’s a compare and contrast with another artwork, maybe it’s writing a poem about the art artwork. These are so wide ranging. A kinesthetic activity, anything sort of thing that helps them engage with the artwork in a different way rather than just answering questions about it.

And then do it for the rest of the week, having them do one of the extension projects, so a small art project that is related to the artwork. It’s not a copy of the artwork. We don’t ever put that in there. We don’t support that. But if the artwork is about community, maybe they do an artwork about community or if the artwork uses a lot of pattern, maybe they do an artwork that has a lot of pattern. Those are really simplified versions. But it’s a really easy structure and then every week you can do a new artwork.

That is what we’re recommending. And Jennifer, who is on our team, she’s been on the podcast before, Jennifer Easterling, that’s what she’s doing. She’s just setting it up. I talked to her yesterday and she was just setting it up for hers to start on Monday. And I asked her if she would make a video of how she’s doing it and how it’s going, so that should be coming along the pipeline sometime too.

They’re a really easy structure. You have to think too hard about it, but it’s meaningful. They’re doing something meaningful. It’s not busy work. I know a lot of our kids are going to be just filled with a lot of busy work over the next few weeks, and this is something that they can actually benefit from and they can learn from and they can connect with art in in new ways. We recommend that.

If you are interested in getting those artwork lessons, they are part of the membership, the Curated Connections Library Membership, which right now is completely open for enrollment. We usually have it closed this time of year, but we just decided to leave it open. So if you go to artclasscurator.com, you’ll see at the top there’s a link to it. There’s a link this has join, so you can head over there if you’re interested in checking out those lessons. We have over a hundred artwork lessons. They are really wide-ranging, women, diverse, other countries. We really make sure we include a wide range of types of art and they are all filterable by, say you want to a female artist from Africa. You click female, you click Africa and it’ll pull up what we have in the archive with those terms, so a lot of different options there.

That’s what we’re recommending, but I want to share with you some other creative ideas that I’ve been seeing on social media that I’ve been really inspired by. One of them is not necessarily an art project, but it is a community connection type of idea. One of my friends, her neighborhood… And you might’ve seen this. I’ve seen a couple neighborhoods post this. That they’re having a neighborhood challenge and then they put things in their windows so that as people are walking their dog or riding their bike, they can look at the window and see that the art from the window.

It might be not just art with this thing, but what she’s doing is they made a family window museum. They posted a little label and it has her last name and it says, Window Art Museum. And then they’re posting the art that the kids make in the window for their neighbors to see when their neighbors are walking by, and I just thought that was so, so clever. And that might even be something that you could do with your kids and you could say, “Put your art in your window,” and then maybe you at one point drive by and check it out. You can imagine that would make a student feel really special if they said, “Hey, we made this art museum in our window.” And then you said, “Yeah, I saw it,” and then you made a comment about it. Like, can you imagine how special that would make your student feel? Right now, they need all of that.

Another idea is Devin Calvert from Mr. Calvert’s Art Room. He’s also, I think, the president of Wisconsin Art Education Association. He is one of the speakers at The Call to Art. He is doing for his students an Artist of the Day and he’s posting a video every day for his students. And I think you can actually follow that online. I can see him. If I can find a link to that, I’ll post them in the show notes as well. But you probably can just send his videos onto them, I would imagine, because I think they’re public. I think that’s really awesome. A way to introduce your kids to more artists.

I’ve seen a lot of creativity challenges. My friend Jamie Hand, she runs the website, Preschool Steam, is doing challenges to get kids creative thinking. And now’s the time to really focus on creativity. If we don’t have the normal supplies that we usually have, what can we do? I’ve seen color wheels made from objects in your house, collecting all the different colors and then making a range. Even you could do value, you can say, “Okay, get all the ranges of blue that you can find and then put them in order from lightest to darkest,” things like that. Any sort of creative challenge like building challenges or engineering challenges, anything like that would really help give your students something fun to do. Give them a break from all of the worksheets that they’re about to have to do. I’m really scared about how many worksheets are about to happen. I really hope it’s not too many.

Another awesome resource is something that Amy Bultena from Artful Artsy Amy, another presenter at Call to Art, and I’m sure you’ve seen this on Facebook, but she compiled and had teachers send in their digital learning lessons into this giant Google folder. I think you couldn’t see the folder unless you submitted a lesson, but now she’s opened it up for everyone to see. You can still submit lessons, but now she’s made this resource public. I will put a link to that as well in the show notes with her permission. I need to ask her if she’s okay with me doing that. If not, you can check out all of the art teacher Facebook groups on Facebook, all of those groups and you will find it pretty easily.

I’ve been seeing a lot of teachers post videos for their students. Even one of my daughter’s teachers sent one yesterday and it was so silly and she had her like pet hippo stuffed animal and they were talking about what they’ve been doing. And just little things like that about your life, what you’ve been doing, giving them a tour of your house, little things that can increase that connection and make it feel less isolating. Less like you’re just giving them busy work because you don’t know what else to do and more like, “Hey, I’m your teacher. I miss you.” I think our kids really need to hear that.

All right, so that’s what I got. I hope to see you at The Call to Art Conference. Again, that’s artclasscurator.com/calltoart and then the You Need Art Challenge is on Instagram. Both of those things are free. We are super excited about them and we hope to see you there. All right, thanks so much.

And oh, one more thing, I’m having a hard time with the podcast, thinking of what should this podcast be. If no one is teaching, what do you all need? If you have a topic idea, if there’s anything you want me to talk about, I would love to hear what you have to say. And also some of the presenters from Call to Art, I’m going to schedule their interviews as podcast episodes too, things related especially to this online learning thing where we’re dealing with. But I would love to hear any ideas that you have on podcasts that you want to hear, things that you want discussed and I really appreciate that. You can send those to [email protected].

All right. Thanks so much. Have a great day. Stay safe. Stay healthy. Love you. Bye.

Thank you so much for listening to the Art Class Curator Podcast. Help more art teachers find us by reviewing the podcast and recommending it to a friend. Do you have a work of art that changed your life? If so, send me your art story. You can send it to [email protected] or leave a voicemail to 202-996-7972.

Get more inspiration for teaching art with purpose by subscribing to our newsletter, Your Weekly Art Break. Recent topics include how to support English language learners, why we should teach artworks from black artists, even if it isn’t February, and how to deal with teacher burnout. Subscribe at artclasscurator.com/artbreak to receive six free art appreciation worksheets.

Today’s art quote comes from Yayoi Kusama and she says, “I want to start a revolution using art to build the sort of society I myself envisioned.”

Thank you so much for listening. Have a great day.

Subscribe and Review in iTunes

Have you subscribed to the podcast? I don’t want you to miss an episode and we have a lot of good topics and guests coming up! Click here to subscribe on iTunes!

If you are feeling extra kind, I would LOVE it if you left us a review on iTunes too! These reviews help others find the podcast and I truly love reading your feedback. You can click here to review and select “Write a Review” and let me know what you love best about the podcast!

You May Also Enjoy These Episodes:

Reader Interactions

March 4, 2021 at 11:33 am

You are amazing! Thank you for sharing your amazing knowledge.

March 9, 2021 at 9:44 am

You’re welcome!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get Art Inspiration To Your Inbox!

Free Worksheets!

*Free Bundle of Art Appreciation Worksheets*

In this free bundle of art worksheets, you receive six ready-to-use art worksheets with looking activities designed to work with almost any work of art.

• Art / Homeschool / Subject

Free Homeschool Art Classes: The Ultimate Resource List!

by Elizabeth Dukart ·

That Homeschool Family is a participant in a variety of programs including the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Purchases made from links on this website may result in That Homeschool Family receiving a monetary payment at no extra cost to you. For more details, please see our Privacy Policy .

Planning your homeschool art curriculum and wondering if there may be some free homeschool art classes online for your kids? You’re in luck! I’ve created the ultimate resource list of free homeschool art classes and am sharing it with you today!

Homeschooling can be crafted to fit any budget. I’ve seen homeschooling done within a wide range of budgets and can honestly say there are a ton of amazing free homeschooling resources out there! While homeschooling parents would typically have to spend hours upon hours searching the internet for those resources, I’ve taken the reigns and put the time and energy into creating this list of free homeschool art classes so you don’t have to! Instead, use the time to enjoy making memories and doing activities with your family.

Now, this list of free homeschool art classes is just one of my many lists of free homeschool curriculums . When you get a chance, be sure to check out the rest of them. Who knows…you might find your newest favorite free curriculum in one of my lists!

Since there are so many options out there, I’ve organized this list of free homeschool art resources into categories. Whether you’re looking for art classes on YouTube, art classes on TikTok, art websites, (I could go on and on), you can definitely create a robust homeschool art curriculum with the following suggestions!

I intend for this list of free homeschool art classes to be a growing list, so I definitely suggest bookmarking or pinning this article to Pinterest so you can refer to it later on, as I find more and more resources to include.

Before we dive into this, let me just remind you that there is no shame in outsourcing homeschool instruction! One of the many myths of homeschooling is that the parent has to know everything about a content area in order to teach it. Um. No. The resources are out there for a reason. Whether you don’t know much about a subject or literally just don’t want to teach a subject, go ahead and outsource it!

Ok. I’m stepping off my soapbox and getting on with the resources. Here we go!

Homeschool Art Classes on YouTube

Art for kids hub.

Art for Kids Hub is, hands down, one of my kids favorite art YouTube channels. Drawing tutorials are provided in a easy-to-follow manner and really are lots of fun for a wide range of ages. Playlists are organized in categories such as How to Draw Science , Fall and Autumn Art Lessons for Kids , Community Helpers , How to Draw Sharks for Shark Week , and more, making it super easy to include their art tutorials in unit studies or as curriculum extension activities. If you’re after origami lessons, there are a few of those available as well!

While their YouTube channel is free, they also offer a monthly membership for ad-free lessons.

Mr P Studios

The Mr P Studios YouTube channel offers step-by-step tutorials for a number of elementary-level hands-on art lessons with topics such as Modeling Clay Pots , Symmetry Painting , Picasso’s Philosophy of Art for Kids , and Watercolor Value Practice .

I Love Drawing

I Love Drawing features a number of elementary-level drawing videos and (my favorite part), many of the videos share the history of various art styles and/or provide tutorials on drawing in certain styles. On this channel, you’ll find art lessons such as How to Draw Caricature , Pointillism for Kids , Surrealism for Kids , Learn Perspective Easy and more.

Rainbow Parrot Art

Rainbow Parrot Art has so many unique are classes to choose from! Videos are organized into categories such as Art History Crash Course , Watercolor Tutorials , Caramic/Clay Sculpture Tutorials , and Famous Artists Tutorials . With all the fun topics, I totally wouldn’t blame you for joining in on homeschool art lessons with the kids!

Andrea Nelson Art

I discovered Andrea Nelson Art on TikTok ! She shares her tutorials on her YouTube channel as well. Her artwork always looks fun, inviting, and could make for a great family homeschool art activity! Andrea Nelson presents art in a way that is not overwhelming, making it fun to learn new skills and techniques.

Rebel Unicorn Crafts

Another TikTok favorite of mine, Rebel Unicorn Crafts currently has over 700 videos of art tutorials on YouTube! Tutorials range include gouache , watercolors , and even fluid painting .

Virtual Art Class with Kim

Yet another creator I originally found on TikTok , Virtual Art Class with Kim has a number of fun art projects that would be a wonderful part of your homeschool art curriculum. If you’re open to TikTok, she does seem to have more videos over on that platform.

The Art Sherpa

Over 1,000 step-by-step acrylic painting lessons are featured on The Art Sherpa’s YouTube Channel .

Fragile Glory Impressions

You guys! Fragile Glory Impressions has free homeschool art classes for all grade levels , so whether you’re looking for kindergarten or 11th grade lessons, definitely check out this YouTube channel! Not only are there classes like How to Draw Bubbles and How to Draw 3D Letters , but the kids can also learn how to put on their own art show . So cool!

Drawing & Painting – The Virtual Instructor

If you’re looking for more advanced tutorials, I’m thinking you’ll love Drawing & Painting – The Virtual Instructor . With over 500 tutorial videos on topics such as Charcoal Drawing Lessons , Graphite Pencil Lessons , and Oil Painting Lessons , your advanced artist should have plenty of art lessons to keep them busy! For even more in-depth art lessons, paid lessons are available on their website .

Geared more for the advanced artist, Lazy Arts has a whole series on how to draw a face that looks pretty cool!

Circle Line Art School

If you’re after more advanced drawing tutorials, Circle Line Art School has some pretty amazing videos.

Art with Trista

Featuring online art tutorials from kindergarten to high school levels, Art with Trista has over 400 videos and is growing! On this YouTube art channel, you’ll find playlists such as Elementary Lines Bundle , Printmaking , Elementary Pinch Pot Clay Lesson Bundle , Ornaments , and more. In addition, there are a number of art lesson playlists designed to accompany bundles for purchase on TPT . (Videos are free to watch, but TPT purchases may include printables and such)

Jenna Layton Art

If you’re looking for an entire year of free homeschool art classes, check out the Jenna Layton Art YouTube Channel. Her 52 weeks of Art playlist looks like it could be appropriate for upper-elementary to middle school age homeschoolers.

Cassie Stephens Art Teacherin’ in Tennessee

Over 500 videos and growing, Cassie Stephens’ YouTube art videos look to be geared towards the early-elementary ages. Videos are organized into playlists with fun topics such as Wizard Week , Outer Space Week , and Dinosaur Week making this channel a great option for including art activities in your homeschool unit studies!

Cartooning Club How to Draw

If your child is into cartoon characters, manga and super heroes, definitely check out the Cartooning Club How to Draw YouTube channel. Tutorial themes include topics like How to Draw WWE Superstars , How to Draw Five Nights at Freddies , and How to Draw Sonic Characters and could be a great way to encourage reluctant artists to create their favorite characters! For even more content, this channel offers a Masterclass Membership for $1/month.

This YouTube channel has grown so much that it has even expanded into multiple channels. Their Cartooning Club XL channel features experimental drawing tutorials. Cartooning Club Junior looks like it would be a great fit for those in search of more simple cartoon tutorials and Cartooning Club Z seems to focus more on anime tutorials.

Alphonso Dunn

Featuring drawing tutorials for the more advanced art students, Alphonso Dunn has videos in categories such as Urban Sketching, Landscape & Scenery, Portrait Drawing, Drawing Fundamentals, and Figure Drawing.

Homeschool Art Websites

Arttango provides free art lessons for kindergarten , first grade , second grade , third grade , fourth grade , and fifth grade . At 30 lessons per grade, lessons cover instruction and provide activities in regards to line, shape, color, and the art elements.

Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool

Easy Peasy is pretty well-known in the homeschool community for their free homeschooling curriculum. Their art classes are organized by grade levels of first grade through eighth grade in the following categories:

• Art – Ancient
• Art – Early American
• Art – Cultures
• Art – Modern
• Drawing and Painting (intended for ages 7-12)
• Drawing Professionally (intended for ages 10-adult)

In addition to elementary and middle school classes, Easy Peasy also offers the following as part of their high school curriculum:

• Art Appreciation
• Drawing Professionally

Yes, Art for Kids Hub was mentioned above in the YouTube section, but they also have a website ! The website has the same YouTube videos embedded on their site, but may provide a better “searching experience.” On the Art for Kids Hub website, you’ll find art tutorials in categories such as How to Draw , Origami for Kids , Painting for Kids , Holiday Art Projects , and Seasons .

Also mentioned in the above YouTube section, the Art with Trista website has a number of free art resources as well !

Deep Space Sparkle

Deep Space Sparkle has a plethora of art classes intended for grades K-7. While this site does offer a membership , there are a number of freebies including monthly freebie packs and art projects organized by grade levels (Kindergarten – 6th grade), by subject (including animals , color theory , recycled materials , and the masters ). For an even more in-depth homeschool art experience, this site also offers a series on designing an art curriculum !

Art Projects for Kids

If you’re looking for homeschool elementary art activities, Art Projects for Kids could be a great resource for you! Categories include drawing , crafting , painting , and coloring . There are even studies on various artists ! There are so many free homeschool art ideas on this site, definitely keep this website in your “back pocket.”

How to Draw

Consider the How to Draw website to be your “one stop shop” for all things drawing. Literally. Countless drawing tutorials are available whether you’re looking for cartoon characters, how to draw the face & body, manga/anime style characters and more.

ArtyFactory

Definitely aimed towards the upper levels, ArtyFactory has art lessons , art history and appreciation , and design lessons on a number of topics. There’s a ton of content on this site. It’ll take you some time to look through everything, but there could be some hidden gems for your homeschool unit studies and art classes here!

Artsy Craftsy Mom

Artsy Craftsy Mom has a bunch of art freebies as well as a membership-based resource section . In addition to the freebies, you’ll also find a number of pre-made unit study resources !

Jerry’s Artarama

Now Jerry’s Artarama is an online art store, but they also have a number of free art lessons on their website!

Garden of Praise

Intended for elementary level, Garden of Praise features a number of painting & artist study lessons . Each lesson includes a biography, study sheet, worksheet, grayscale print of the art, and more.

Art Classes for Kids

Featuring free online art classes for kids of all ages Art Classes for Kids has tutorials in categories such as chalk pastel , acrylic painting , sculpture , and more.

The Kitchen Table Classroom

The Kitchen Table Classroom has a number of free online art classes for kids . A quick search on the website brings up projects like Post It Note Paper Quilt Art , Foil Painting , and a DIY Plastic Vase . In addition, there are a number of teacher resources like art appreciation printables , printable art prompts , and printables on the elements and principles of art .

NurtureStore

The NurtureStore website has a ton of educational resources including 100 free online art lessons for children .

Yep! You read that right! Michaels Craft Stores have a number of free online classes in addition to their free in-store classes. From what I can tell, most of the online classes are scheduled at certain times and not available on-demand, so you may want to check the site from time to time.

National Gallery of Art

Scroll through and take a look at the free art resources from the National Gallery of Art . If you’re thinking of including a visit to the National Gallery of Art into your homeschool travel , many of the lessons are extensions of pieces inside the gallery!

Angela Anderson

If acrylic painting tutorials are what you’re after, Angela Anderson has some amazing options! Playlists include themes like Impressionist Painting Lessons , Boho Flower Series , and Butterfly & Insect Acrylic Painting Tutorials . The tutorials remind me of the popular “paint and sip” type in-person classes, so these tutorials could be better for more advanced lessons. However, if the kids want to give it a go, might as well let them try!

Another online art store, Blick also has hundreds of free, online art classes that would be perfect for your homeschool art activities! There are options for all grade levels and a number of disciplines such as fiber art, mask making, and sculpture.

Incredible Art Department

Providing art lessons intended for pre-school through college level, Incredible Art Department has a ton of online resources. It might take you some time to get through the website, but this site could be gold for many of you! It even includes lesson plans!

Although KinderArt does have a membership, there are a number of free homeschool art classes geared for kids ages 5-12 including Pop Art Owls , Tangled Web Scarecrows , and Negative Space Plant Drawings .

Emily Seilhamer Art

After finding this resource on TikTok , I found the Emily Seilhamer Art website ! This site features a number of acrylic paint on canvas tutorials.

Teachers Pay Teachers

Now, you will have to spend some time sorting through results, but there are plenty of free art resources on the Teachers Pay Teachers website ! When searching, just make sure to filter the results by age and subject and make sure to click on the “free” option.

Soul Sparklettes Art

While the bulk of Soul Sparklettes is membership-based, there are quite a few free art projects for kids on their website ! Many of their projects have a story or deeper meaning behind the art project, so…that counts as multiple subjects, right?!

I’m willing to bet that I’ve missed a few of your favorite homeschool art resources. Like I said in the beginning, I’m treating this as a “growing article” and will be including more homeschool art resources as I find, and become aware of, them. If you know of an awesome free homeschool art curriculum that should be in this resource, send me an email !

Until next time, stay safe and enjoy quality time with your family,

Elizabeth Dukart is a proud Georgia-based born and raised Jersey Girl, wife, and mom of 2 human boys & 1 canine boy.

Created in 2021, Elizabeth owns and publishes  That Homeschool Family : a free resource for homeschooling parents and beyond! A seasoned blogger, Elizabeth previously published a popular location-specific family resource blog, but decided to “Pivot!” her blogging focus after she started homeschooling her two boys in 2020. In addition to this blog, you can follow Elizabeth’s homeschooling and family adventures on Facebook , TikTok , Instagram , YouTube , and Pinterest . She can also be found in her Facebook Group: That Homeschool Family Hangout .

When she’s not busy taking over the world or homeschooling, Elizabeth can be found listening to music (especially The Beatles & Harry Styles!), being silly with her boys, watching movies with family, shopping, or traveling!

Have a question or want to work with Elizabeth? Send her an email!

You may also like...

9 Creative Ways to use Sticky Notes in your Homeschool

 by  Elizabeth Dukart

 by Elizabeth Dukart · Published

Homeschool Travel Tips Series

Ikea Homeschool Educator’s Discount

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Create new account
• Reset your password

Register and get FREE resources and activities

Ready to unlock all our resources?

5 primary school art projects to try at home

Paint a stone paperweight

Age range: Nursery and Reception What you do: Find a smooth stone or large pebble about the size of the palm of your child's hand. Have them paint a picture of something (an insect, a flower or a dinosaur) on the stone. Once dried, varnish the stone/pebble. They're learning about... Using different tools and materials to create art. At school they might… Do a similar activity linked to a topic they are studying, such as mini-beasts. 

Start a unique learning programme!

• Weekly programme for each school year
• Worksheets sent direct to your inbox
• Keeps your child's learning on track

Study one picture closely

Age range: EYFS and KS1 What you do:  Choose a famous painting (for example, Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers ) and have your child study different sections of the picture – use a magnifying glass to help if you have one. They then draw, paint, or use pastels, recreating that specific part of the picture, larger and in detail. They're learning about...  How to look at the work of different artists using different tools and techniques. At school they might… Do a mini-topic on one particular artist, learning about their life in terms of their work, their birthplace, their personality, etc.

Make a clay Diwali candle holder

Age range: EYFS and KS1 What you do: Start with a ball of air-drying clay. Help your child push their thumb into the ball to make a hole big enough to fit a tea-light candle in it. Paint the clay using gold and silver paints, then leave to dry. They're learning about...  Exploring a range of starting points and different inspirations for their art work. At school they might… Work on a selection of art projects themed around a festival such as Diwali (for example designing henna patterns on a cut-out paper hand).

Paint a mood

Age range: KS2 What you do: Chat with your child about how they are feeling, perhaps asking them, “How does it make you feel when X happens?” Write down the key emotion words they use. Present them with paints or sketching pencils and encourage them to draw a picture of their mood. Explain that it might be an abstract picture, where the meaning isn’t immediately obvious – look at some abstract art online together so that they understand they don't have to represent emotion through objects. They're learning about...  Communicating ideas and feelings through artwork. At school they might… Listen to a piece of classical music and draw or paint how it is making them feel.

Design story-telling tiles

Age range: KS2 What you do: Help your child roll out some air-drying clay and cut it into several square tiles. Using clay tools (or ordinary cutlery) have them carve out scenes from a favourite story, depicting what happens and the setting. They're learning about...  Using tools and techniques, using a story as a starting point for art. At school they might… Use drama, images, nature or films as other starting points for artistic projects.

Primary-school art curriculum changes in 2014

In 2014 there will be changes brought into all areas of the national curriculum. These changes, broadly speaking, are designed to give schools and teachers more freedom and independence to teach children in the way they see fit, therefore some of the objectives and assessments will be more free-flowing and less rigid.

Like many other subjects, art has been ‘slimmed down’ in terms of the number of objectives and suggestions. This should not mean that your child will be taught less art, but that it’ll be up to the teacher to determine more of what is taught. What you can do as a parent is continue to fire their interest in the subject – take them to galleries, look at books about famous artists and have fun with plenty of hands-on creative activities.

Give your child a headstart

• FREE articles & expert information
• FREE resources & activities
• FREE homework help

More like this

Welcome to Art Class

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Fish That School Together Save Energy, Study Finds

Like Olympic cyclists, fish expend less effort when swimming in tight groups than when alone. The finding could explain why some species evolved to move in schools.

By Katrina Miller

You’ll catch it during the Olympics this weekend: scores of cyclists banding dangerously close together on a flat road during a race. The formation, known as a peloton, allows riders in the middle to maintain the same speed as those on the periphery, but by using less power.

In June, a group of researchers showed that a similar effect occurs with fish in turbulent water. Fish swimming in schools, the team realized, expend less energy than those traveling solo. The team’s study , published in the journal PLOS Biology, is one of the first to directly measure how schools of fish are affected by turbulence.

“To some degree, this makes sense,” said Rui Ni, an engineer at Johns Hopkins University and an author of the new study. “When an environment gets tougher, you group together.”

The findings could lead to a better understanding of how external factors that cause water turbulence can affect fish populations. It may also someday inspire new technologies, like underwater vehicles or flying drones, that are designed to move in groups as a way to reduce their energy use.

Many animals participate in what scientists refer to as collective movement. Insects swarm to mate more effectively; birds flock for better navigation and defense against predation. But scientists have been torn over whether acting as a group reduces the amount of energy each individual expends, or increases it.

The researchers of the new study hypothesized that fish inside schools might be sheltered from the small whirlpools, or eddies, that create aquatic turbulence, and with that protection be able to maintain pace with less effort.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

Suggestions or feedback?

MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Machine learning
• Sustainability
• Black holes
• Classes and programs

Departments

• Aeronautics and Astronautics
• Brain and Cognitive Sciences
• Architecture
• Political Science
• Mechanical Engineering

Centers, Labs, & Programs

• Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)
• Picower Institute for Learning and Memory
• Lincoln Laboratory
• School of Architecture + Planning
• School of Engineering
• School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
• Sloan School of Management
• School of Science
• MIT Schwarzman College of Computing

School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences welcomes nine new faculty

Press contact :.

Previous image Next image

Dean Agustín Rayo and the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences recently welcomed nine new professors to the MIT community. They arrive with diverse backgrounds and vast knowledge in their areas of research.

Sonya Atalay joins the Anthropology Section as a professor. She is a public anthropologist and archaeologist who studies Indigenous science protocols, practices, and research methods carried out with and for Indigenous communities. Atalay is the director and principal investigator of the Center for Braiding Indigenous Knowledges and Science, a newly established National Science Foundation Science and Technology Center. She has expertise in the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and served two terms on the National NAGPRA Review Committee, first appointed by the Bush administration and then for a second term by the Obama administration. Atalay has produced a series of research-based comics in partnership with Native nations about repatriation of Native American ancestral remains, return of sacred objects and objects of cultural patrimony under NAGPRA law. Atalay earned her PhD in anthropology from the University of California at Berkeley (UC Berkeley).

Anna Huang SM ’08 joins the departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and Music and Theater Arts as assistant professor. She will help develop graduate programming focused on music technology. Previously, she spent eight years with Magenta at Google Brain and DeepMind, spearheading efforts in generative modeling, reinforcement learning, and human-computer interaction to support human-AI partnerships in music-making. She is the creator of Music Transformer and Coconet (which powered the Bach Google Doodle). She was a judge and organizer for the AI Song Contest. Anna holds a Canada CIFAR AI Chair at Mila, a BM in music composition, a BS in computer science from the University of Southern California, an MS from the MIT Media Lab, and a PhD from Harvard University.

Elena Kempf joins the History Section as an assistant professor. She is an historian of modern Europe with special interests in international law and modern Germany in its global context. Her current book project is a legal, political, and cultural history of weapons prohibitions in modern international law from the 1860s to the present. Before joining MIT, Kempf was a postdoc at the Miller Institute for Global Challenges and the Law at UC Berkeley and a lecturer at the Department of History at Stanford University. Elena earned her PhD in history from UC Berkeley.

Matthias Michel joins the Department of Linguistics and Philosophy as an assistant professor. Matthias completed his PhD in philosophy in 2019 at Sorbonne Université. Before coming to MIT, he was a Bersoff Faculty Fellow in the Department of Philosophy at New York University. His research is at the intersection between philosophy and cognitive science, and focuses on philosophical issues related to the scientific study of consciousness. His current work addresses questions such as how to distinguish entities with minds from those without, which animals are sentient, and which mental functions can be performed unconsciously.

Jacob Moscona PhD ’21 is a new assistant professor in the Department of Economics. His research explores broad questions in economic development, with a focus on the role of innovation, the environment, and political economy. One stream of his research investigates the forces that drive the rate and direction of technological progress, as well as how new technologies shape global productivity differences and adaptation to major threats like climate change. Another stream of his research studies the political economy of economic development, with a focus on how variation in social organization and institutions affects patterns of conflict and cooperation. Prior to joining MIT, he was a Prize Fellow in Economics, History, and Politics at Harvard University. He received his BA from Harvard in 2016 and PhD from MIT in 2021. Outside of MIT, Jacob enjoys playing and performing music.

Sendhil Mullainathan joins the departments of EECS and Economics as the Peter de Florez Professor. His research uses machine learning to understand complex problems in human behavior, social policy, and medicine. Previously, Mullainathan spent five years at MIT before joining the faculty at Harvard in 2004, and then the University of Chicago in 2018. He received his BA in computer science, mathematics, and economics from Cornell University and his PhD from Harvard.

Elise Newman PhD ’21 is a new assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics and Philosophy. Her forthcoming monograph, “When arguments merge,” studies the ingredients that languages use to construct verb phrases, and examines how those ingredients interact with other linguistic processes such as question formation. By studying these interactions, she forms a hypothesis about how different languages’ verb phrases can be distinct from each other, and what they must have in common, providing insight into this aspect of the human language faculty. In addition to the structural properties of language, Newman also has expertise in semantics (the study of meaning) and first language acquisition. She returns to MIT after a postdoc at the University of Edinburgh, after completing her PhD in linguistics at MIT in 2021.

Oliver Rollins joins the Program in Science, Technology, and Society as an assistant professor. He is a qualitative sociologist who explores the sociological dimensions of neuroscientific knowledge and technologies. His work primarily illustrates the way race, racialized discourses, and systemic practices of social difference impact and are shaped by the development and use of neuroscience. His book, “Conviction: The Making and Unmaking of The Violent Brain” (Stanford University Press, 2021), traces the evolution of neuroimaging research on antisocial behavior, stressing the limits of this controversial brain model when dealing with aspects of social inequality. Rollins’s second book project will grapple with the legacies of scientific racism in and through the mind and brain sciences, elucidating how the haunting presence of race endures through modern neuroscientific theories, data, and technologies. Rollins recently received an NSF CAREER Award to investigate the intersections between social justice and science. Through this project, he aims to examine the sociopolitical vulnerabilities, policy possibilities, and anti-racist promises for contemporary (neuro)science.

Ishani Saraf joins the Program in Science, Technology, and Society as an assistant professor. She is a sociocultural anthropologist. Her research studies the transformation and trade of discarded machines in translocal spaces in India and the Indian Ocean, where she focuses on questions of postcolonial capitalism, urban belonging, material practices, situated bodies of knowledge, and environmental governance. She received her PhD from the University of California at Davis, and prior to joining MIT, she was a postdoc and lecturer at the University of Virginia.

Share this news article on:

Related links.

• Program in Science, Technology, and Society
• Anthropology Section
• Department of Economics
• History Section
• Department of Linguistics and Philosophy
• Music and Theater Arts Section

Related Topics

• Anthropology
• Linguistics
• Music and theater arts
• Program in STS
• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (eecs)
• School of Architecture and Planning
• School of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences

Related Articles

School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences welcomes 10 new faculty

MIT School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences welcomes six new faculty

Previous item Next item

More MIT News

Empowering the next generation of scientists in Africa

Read full story →

Scientists pin down the origins of the moon’s tenuous atmosphere

Scientists find a human “fingerprint” in the upper troposphere’s increasing ozone

A bright and airy hub for climate at MIT

From large labs to small teams, mentorship thrives

Physicists report new insights into exotic particles key to magnetism

• More news on MIT News homepage →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, USA

• Map (opens in new window)
• Events (opens in new window)
• People (opens in new window)
• Careers (opens in new window)
• Accessibility
• Social Media Hub
• MIT on Facebook
• MIT on YouTube
• MIT on Instagram

Colleges keep closing. Are regulators doing enough to warn students?

The biden administration has aggressively tackled college oversight. but universities are still closing without warning, leaving students and faculty in the lurch..

During college, many young people meet friends they’ll have for the rest of their lives. They play sports together. They’re in bands. They take similar classes for their majors. 

But a university has to stay open long enough for students to create those bonds. In less than two years, two colleges shut their doors on Victoria Hebert. Thankfully, the rising junior has a small circle of friends who’ve also been caught up in sudden closures at the same pair of New York campuses. After Wells College said it would cease operations this year, the group of young women plans to transfer to a third school – hopefully their last – in Michigan in the fall. 

“These girls are amazing,” said Victoria’s mom, Mia Mazza. Between the pandemic and hopscotching campuses, “they haven’t had a normal school year since their freshman year of high school.” 

When the mother and daughter learned in April that Victoria would have to find a third new college, they were completely caught off guard. So were the students and faculty members at the University of the Arts, a private college in Philadelphia that abruptly announced in May that it would shutter in June, not long after Wells said it was dissolving. Two University of the Arts students told USA TODAY they first learned about the news not from the school, but from a news story in the Philadelphia Inquirer .

In a class action lawsuit against the school, students said college administrators violated consumer protection law and failed to notify regulators that the institution was financially unstable. (The university and a lawyer for the school did not respond to USA TODAY’s emailed requests for comment.) Such litigation typically accompanies unexpected college closures.

Colleges fold all the time. But metrics show they have been dissolving at a faster pace in recent decades, especially after the 2008 financial crisis. There are indications the trend may accelerate: Over the first half of this year, roughly one higher education institution per week announced it would close or merge, per one estimate . A crisis in college financial aid this year – which will have downstream effects on enrollment, especially at smaller schools – could make things worse. 

In the past few years, the Biden administration has taken an aggressive approach to college oversight, picking up on work Trump administration officials paused or undid. Though Biden has made student loan forgiveness a hallmark of his agenda, the president has also been adamant about fixing the root causes of massive student debt. A key piece of that puzzle is preventing colleges from closing with little or no warning. 

That task is challenging, regardless of who’s in the White House because the federal government’s metrics for identifying at-risk private colleges have long been flawed. The most recent flutter of high-profile closures underscores how necessary federal intervention may be to protect the lives of students and faculty from getting derailed in the coming years. Tragic stories from students like Hebert are bringing new urgency to efforts to improve the government’s warning signs that a campus is flailing.

“It’s hard to see a world where colleges stop closing,” said Robert Kelchen, a higher education professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a renowned policy expert. “So the challenge becomes: When do people know that their college is at risk?”

‘We’re not going through this again’

Hebert's frustrating college journey started about two Christmases ago, when her mom received an email from the president of Cazenovia College, a small private school in New York state with a legacy stretching back nearly 200 years. 

“I regret to inform you that after much deliberation, the Cazenovia College Board of Trustees has determined that due to financial concerns, the College will not be enrolling students for the 2023-2024 academic year,” the president wrote to parents in early December 2022. 

Though they’d read some troubling news stories about the school defaulting on a multimillion-dollar municipal bond, they didn’t expect things to escalate so quickly. On the bright side, Victoria still had a semester to make a game plan. 

She transferred to Wells College, a similar school about 90 minutes away. Her mom, Mia, said she sat down with the president of the school in January 2023, and he assured her that the school’s finances were in good shape. (The school did not respond to a request for comment about the closure or the meeting.)

Mia was frank: “We’re not going through this again,” she said. But after her daughter had been at the new school for about a year, an eerily familiar message landed in their inboxes. 

“I am devastated to have to write that our beloved Wells College is closing its doors,” said an April 29 email from the school’s president. 

Victoria was getting ready to go to her 8 a.m. Spanish class when she found out. It was the Monday before the last week of the term. Her class was quickly canceled. So Victoria met up with her two friends, the ones who had also transferred with her from Cazenovia. 

“We all got together and just yelled,” she said. Her mom called in tears.

University of the Arts stuns students with sudden closure

About a month later and a few hundred miles away from Wells, Isabel Rose Catalan was sitting in bed reading when she got similar news. She was having a “great little summer evening” in Philadelphia after an excursion to a museum with her grandmother, when her phone lit up with text messages. 

The Philadelphia Inquirer was reporting her school, the University of the Arts, was closing. As with the startling announcement at Wells, students and faculty at Catalan’s college were shocked. Catalan had just a year left before she was set to complete her creative writing degree. 

“Who transfers for their senior year?” she asked herself. 

She had chosen UArts in part because it was close to home. Her mom died suddenly just before the pandemic, when she was a junior in high school. The college’s location made it possible for her to stay in a place that was familiar at a time when the world felt disorienting. 

“In the past four years, I feel like I’ve had a lot taken away from me,” she said.

Catalan transferred to Drexel University, another private university in Philadelphia, and is set to start in the fall. She still doesn't know for sure what her financial aid package will look like.

The closures at Wells and UArts didn’t just surprise folks on campus – they also seemed to startle college watchdogs. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education – an accreditor responsible for ensuring that colleges in its purview are operating above board – yanked both schools’ accreditation statuses around the time of their respective closures. 

Nicole Biever, the chief of staff at Middle States, said in an interview the organization is committed to transparency and is always reflecting on its procedures. But accreditors expect colleges to provide them with accurate and honest information, she said, especially when they’re on shaky ground. 

“Institutions close; it happens,” she said. “We expect that institutions will plan for that closure.”

A ‘resource-constrained’ agency

For decades, the U.S. Department of Education has assigned private colleges a “ financial responsibility composite score .” As the name implies, the rating is an assessment of whether a nonprofit or for-profit college or university is balancing its budget appropriately, as a condition of participating in federal financial aid programs. Though it’s not the only measurement the agency uses to eyeball schools’ finances, it’s a significant part of the equation. 

But critics, including experts and independent groups , have said much of the math underlying the score is outdated. And using it to determine whether a school is about to close isn’t very predictive, especially because the measurement is based on years-old tax data. Even the federal government has acknowledged that schools are aware of ways to manipulate it. 

The latest publicly available composite score for the University of the Arts on the Education Department’s standard webpage used to store them is from the fiscal year ending in June 2020. At the time, the agency gave the school a passing grade. Wells’ most recent publicly available score on the same webpage, from the fiscal year ending in June 2019, also deemed it financially responsible. 

Since the score was established in the 1990s , it hasn’t changed significantly, said Justin Monk, who oversees student and institutional aid policy at the National Association of Independent Colleges & Universities. That has long been a problem, he said.

“For a variety of reasons, the score itself isn’t really good at doing what it’s purported to do,” Monk said. “There’s been a longstanding need, I mean decadeslong need, to make some substantive changes to it.” 

Yet overhauling the scoring system for colleges would be a massive undertaking, according to Blake Harden, a former Education Department official who served under President Barack Obama. 

“Hiring a big firm to go in and evaluate a lot of data is going to be expensive,” he said. And “ the department has been resource-constrained.” 

Congressional Republicans, meanwhile, are pushing to cut hundreds of millions of dollars from the budget of the office that oversees college financial aid. At a time when the GOP opposes funding the federal Education Department even at its current levels, taking on another massive project would require tons of money. Comprehensively improving the safeguards that are supposed to protect students like Hebert and Catalan from having their college experiences turned upside down would be no easy task. 

New oversight rules in the early stages

In July, the Education Department enacted a slate of fresh regulations meant to address some of the limitations of the composite score for colleges. Under the revised rules, schools that try to game their rankings will be punished. They’ll also be disciplined if other warning signs crop up. Those “triggering events” include accreditation problems, worrisome changes to financial aid or abruptly shutting down programs that enroll lots of students. 

“College closures and institutional financial instability create significant costs for students and taxpayers,” the agency said in a news release about the new rules. 

The department has had a lot on its to-do list lately. Amid massive reforms to student loan programs, officials screwed up the rollout of upgrades to the college financial aid process – creating a mess that has consumed time and energy, lowered morale in one of the agency’s most important offices and caused families of college students nationwide to lose faith in the government.

In recent months, Kelchen, the education professor in Tennessee, has noticed that the Education Department is also months late in releasing another longstanding list of schools on shaky financial footing. The agency typically publishes a record of colleges on a type of oversight called “heightened cash monitoring” every few months. 

Department spokespeople did not respond to an inquiry about why that index has been delayed. Kelchen said other, more pressing priorities may be getting in the way.

“I think it’s an issue of bandwidth,” he said.

Contributing: USA TODAY data and graphics reporter Carlie Procell

Zachary Schermele covers education and breaking news for   USA TODAY. You can reach him by email at [email protected]. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele .

My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

• My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
• She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
• Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

Related stories

I was worried about parenting with another person all the time. As the primary parent, I wasn't used to dividing parenting duties . My wife was aware of that and always deferred to me as the primary parent.

But the bond between my son and my wife was instant. He had never met someone I was dating before, but he liked her immediately.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

• Main content