Studies Abroad Art Around the World

My Students

At the end of the year I want my students to develop an appreciation of the Arts & values of different cultures around the world. They will gain an understanding of the countries origins & the purposes for their traditions. This will also help them become non-bias individuals and avoid using stereotypes

All of my students have special needs.

They have emotional behavior disorders, autism, or significant learning disabilities. They need hands on activities to keep them engaged. They also need to learn different ways to express themselves. I believe art can teach them how to deal with the issues they face as well as life skills. Its hard for my students to stay focused therefore, I always want to make my lessons fun to keep them engaged and motivated in learning. I create a very warm and calm environment for my students to encourage creativity, imagination and self expression. Art is extremely therapeutic for my student population, which is why I always incorporate other subjects into my lessons so they can use what they learn in my class in other content areas. I challenge my students and encourage them think out the box and make their own creative discoveries and always respect each others differences.

My Project

My students will be able to learn the sewing and painting techniques in each country that we will be studying, and they will be able to make their very own ponchos, kimonos,etc. They will also get to experience first hand the traditions of each culture such as "Dia de los muertos" by making mask and sugar skulls, also using bamboo paint brushes on rice paper, the very same way paintings are created in China, Japan, and Korea. I want to make this project memorable for my students by having them wear the clothes,eat the food, play the games, learn the language, the music, and experience some of the important holidays in each country, and most importantly the Art. I want them to feel like they have stepped into that country when they walk in my class, with all the decorations and costumes.The Ipads will only enhance their learning because they will add a technology component which is one of our states standards, and my students will be able to do virtual tours and research independently.

This project will change my students lives because they are a part of unique population in my community that already suffers from less resources, but they also have to combat the impediments such as their emotional and behavioral challenges.

This virtual field trip into the worlds of other cultures, traditions, and beliefs will give these wonderful students a chance to experience parts of the world. It is my hope that this experience will be apart of the fabric of who they are to become.