Mapping Philadelphia

4th Grade

Teacher Partners: Susan Kaplan, teacher; Anthony Spina, teacher
Teaching Artist: Michael Schwartz

The students created a permanent wall mural installation for the school made up of images cut out from masonite that reflect their vision of Philadelphia. The curriculum for this project was integrated into the social studies lessons taught by the classroom teachers focused on Philadelphia and the region. Students investigated the history of Philadelphia neighborhoods, the city and the region through the art elements and design principles.

In preparation for the wall installation, students created a variety of imaginative and observational drawings and paintings and developed visual literacy by applying the elements of value, color, space, shape, form, texture, perspective and scale.

Students learned to create art as a community of learners. They combined their individual creative sensibilities and practiced group decision-making and problem solving. They practiced respect for each others’ perceptions, ideas, and personal boundaries.