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November 2011

You’ve Got Debt!

Submitted by Joann on Fri, 2011-11-18 12:05


Recently, the G20 Summit was held in Cannes, France to discuss world financial markets and a system of monetary reforms for some troubled European economies. This year, the discussions focused heavily on Greece, whose citizens are rebelling against austerity measures recommended by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in order to prevent the Greek economy – and quite possibly the world economy – from collapse. While the financial discussions may be a snorefest for many students, it’s vital for them at all grade levels to understand the concept of financial debt and its consequences.

Peggy's companion column: 
Visualizing National Debt: A Google Sketchup Example
Resources mentioned in this post: 
Debt Education Lesson Plans
It's All Greek to Me: Understanding the Debt Crisis in Europe

Modern Times: Teaching Modern & Contemporary Art

Submitted by Joann on Fri, 2011-11-11 15:24


Students rarely feel blasé about modern and contemporary art. Generally speaking, they are either captivated by it or bemused by it – "Geez, I could do that!" is a common response. Whatever their attitude, student reaction to such art is honest and visceral. One byproduct of the "I could do that" attitude towards modern art is that students often find it more accessible and less intimidating than other types of art that stress realism. Less intimidating material tends to allow students to approach the subject with less trepidation and with more tolerance regarding mistakes that can occur when creating their own artwork.

Peggy's companion column: 
Out of your Core Subject Comfort Zone
Resources mentioned in this post: 
A Bug's Journey
Color Scramble
Introduction to Modern Art: Practice and Principals