Architecture is an art form and a guide to the study of history. By increasing visual awareness of the architectural environment more is learned about the history and cultural heritage of an area, region, or country. In addition, an appreciation for fine craftsmanship, good design, and their influences on individual lives is developed. The article…

This document is a teacher's guide to the historic buildings of Eugene, Oregon. Eighteen buildings in the Skinner's Butte Historical District are highlighted, including the U.S. Post Office, the Eagles Building, the Lane Hotel, the Oregon Electric Depot, the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot, and several houses. For each structure there is a brief…

Recommends the study of architecture as an early introduction to the interdisciplinary study of history, geography, economics, sociology, and art. Maintains that this study can increase interest in local history and citizenship. Profiles pilot programs that have incorporated architecture into social studies instruction. (MJP)

Ieoh Ming (I. M.) Pei, born in Canton, China, came to the United States in 1935 to study architecture, first at the University of Pennsylvania, then at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Today, Pei's reputation and architectural contributions are renowned worldwide. He has designed…

This lesson plan introduces students (grades four-six) to Creole New Orleans architecture exemplified by "Sun Oak" in the Faubourg Marigny section of the city. Students will learn architectural terms; use line and shape in relation to architectural details; discuss why buildings work architecturally; and draw an historic building using…

Prepared, tested, and improved by teachers--in partnership with architects, historians, city planners, and artists--this guide identifies the ways that built environment education can be introduced into every area of the curriculum. A field trip planning sheet is included to ensure proper planning. Several activities relating to the Liberty…

Studying architectural styles is an exciting way to make history come alive and to help students feel a part of their community. This teacher's guide includes several classroom activities, a historical guide to American architectural styles, a list of resources, and a reproducible student worksheet. (IAH)

This lesson plan introduces high school students to pueblo architecture. Students will learn about pueblo architecture and its cultural tradition; discuss architectural characteristics and aesthetics in San Geronimo de Taos; examine the pueblo as a living environment; explore adobe pueblo structure in clay; and study Hopi, Zuni, and Pueblo…

The American Institute of Architects, locally and nationally, is active in supporting environmental education efforts in the schools. Because of its "endangered" status, Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri, was chosen by the Kansas City chapter as the second focus landmark in the their series. This interdisciplinary field guide serves…

This handbook is divided into five parts and is designed to accompany the filmstrip, "A New Look at Old Buildings," a part of the Providence Preservation Society's ongoing commitment to educating students about Providence's rich architectural heritage. (The other materials used in the program are the audio component for the film and a…

There are many ways to approach the investigation of architecture. One can look at structural form, climate and topography, the aesthetics of style and decoration, building function, historical factors, cultural meanings, or technology and techniques associated with construction. This resource kit touches upon a few of these approaches, ranging…

Designed for 11th grade U.S. history students, the teaching unit combines the history of the U.S. Capitol building and its Greek and Roman revival architecture to tell the story of the nation's government buildings. While the unit uses the U.S. Capitol, any other public building could be used, such as a state capitol, court house, or public…

This upper-elementary level social studies curriculum guide is designed to: (1) teach students to understand and appreciate the built (man made) environment; (2) instruct students about Georgia's history and heritage; and (3) introduce the basic concepts of historic preservation. The unit highlights 10 architectural styles of the homes of famous…

This lesson plan introduces K-grade three students to Mexican Indian architecture. Students will become familiar with the cultural context of the Indian treasure house; discuss the use of wood as the sole building material; compare the treasure house with present day structures; and create miniature treasure houses using wood materials. (GEA)

The original buildings in San Diego's (California) Balboa Park, were planned for the 1915-1916 Panama-California Exposition. Loosely designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival Style, local builders and craftsmen added their own interpretation by using materials found locally in Southern California and freely applying traditional architectural…