When first encountering contemporary art, the viewer is confronted with particular challenges--the works can be both surprising in application of materials and provocative in presentation. Contemporary art can confound its audience as they attempt to decode and interpret its meaning. This Instructional Resource outlines an approach for art…

Electronic textiles (e-textiles)--fabrics embedded with electrical or electronic components--offer a new model for teaching this content. E-textiles also engage students in programming and engineering design through nontraditional projects and materials. This article describes a four-week electricity curriculum using three e-textiles projects that…

Literature supports children's literacy growth in many ways. It helps children extend their understanding and clarify different situations in their lives, recognize and deal with feelings, and be more empathetic. Hands-on activities based on stories support children in giving shape to their thoughts. These creative activities not only empower the…

This article and the one that follows, "Quilt-Making in the Elementary Class" (EJ1077043), emerge from Mountain Laurel Montessori School and provide examples of the intrinsic links between the hand and academic lessons. This article features a compilation of artful recipes for young children (Soap Sculpting Clay, Easy Flour Paste, Face…

Hands-on projects such as creating a three-dimensional diorama are among the most memorable of positive elementary school experiences, yet they are generally uncommon because these complex projects are daunting to undertake. Therefore, it is important to prepare preservice teachers with the skills to lead children in creating these types of…

Presents a selection of egg carton craft ideas. (SJL)

Describes a technique for helping high school students make unique light shades using clay, stained glass scraps, and light. (RM)

Instructions for making simple masks are provided in this guide for teachers of elementary children. Directions with illustrations are given for constructing masks from paper plates, construction paper, plastic milk jugs, and papier-mache. Ideas include a clown mask, a flower mask, a top hat, a paper crown, and "Groucho" glasses. Types…

Presents detailed instructions for the design and construction of simple reed baskets. Directions cover materials preparation, basic designs, and methods for giving baskets a finished appearance. (AM)

Each of the 39 children's craft projects included in this document was selected because: (1) it is appropriate for a library program and helps to further the goals of children's services; (2) it may be successfully completed by children 3 to 12 years old with a minimum of adult help; (3) it requires only inexpensive and commonly available…

Bookbinding is a relatively simple crafts project that requires few tools and supplies. Specific directions are provided. (RM)

Each sixth-grade student contributed one square for a class Halloween quilt, made by printing with fabric crayons. Techniques are described. (RM)

A patchwork wall hanging is an excellent introduction to felting for elementary students. Directions and a time allowance for designing and basting a patch, felting, and sewing the hanging are included. (AM)

Sixth grade students in a special studio class completed a Malaysian copper tooling project. Procedures, techniques, materials and time requirements for the project are presented. (AM)

Lost-wax casting in sterling silver is a costly experience for the average high school student. However, this jewelry process can be learned at no cost if scrap aluminum is used instead of silver, and soap bars are used instead of wax. This lost-soap aluminum casting process is described. (Author/KC)