#TMchat Archive
Current and relevant education discussions are held every Tuesday in #TMchat. A weekly guest moderator, considered an expert on the the week's topic, joins @conniehamilton to guide the one hour chat and actively engage with participants. Founder and moderator @conniehamilton supplies her responses to the week's questions visually in Thinking Maps.
Tuesday May 17, 2016 9:00 PM EDT
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Thursday at 8:00pm (EST)
"Summer Leadership and Development Ideas"
Welcome to . Our topic tonight is Engaging Learners through the Arts. Follow my guest moderator https://t.co/gWhuq9qhYP
Welcome to . Our topic is Engaging Learners through the Arts. Please follow my guest moderator https://t.co/LZdcJl7ZM8
I'm Connie Hamilton. Tim Needles and I are your moderators tonight. Let the introductions begin. https://t.co/QzE8YDw2SH
Hi ! I'm a 5th grade Math/Science teacher in Cary, NC and I'm passionate about integrating the arts! Excited for this chat tonight.
Hi! I am Grace Helms, Art Teacher Patrick County Public Schools.
HI Hannah. Thanks for joining
Our format will include 7 questions. Use A1 to respond to Q1 & remember to include hashtag in all tweets. https://t.co/U9DSyoadJl
Kimberly, Reading Specialist from north TX, dropping in on
Thanks for joining tonight, Kimberly.
Welcome how are things in NC!
. Hi, Rita from Eugene stopping in!
Hi. Mary from VA. I teach 2nd
Hi Rita. Glad you made it to
HI Melissa. Glad you're here in tonight. We're getting ready to launch Q1.
Q1 Embedding art is more than doing crafts. What type of arts can engage learners in any curriculum?
I'm with you! NY hasn't had much sun yet either!
. So glad to be here, Connie, Tim & friends. Ready to learn.
Retweeting Q1. https://t.co/UT344vqRry
Q1 Embedding art is more than doing crafts. What type of arts can engage learners in any curriculum?
ART TEACHERS ARE THE BEST. THE END.
A1 Emerging forms like allow students to create examples or print museum objects for class! https://t.co/sk0YgdodOX
A1: Visual graphic organizers, un-journaling across content areas (specifically Sci/SS), building models using clay/mixed media
Unjournaling? Tell me more.
A1 Poetry, theater, and visual arts are my favorite!
Joining a few minutes late! Big project tomorrow with my littles has me multi-tasking tonight. Valerie from Atlanta. Hi!
Same. Great way to see how Ss string together ideas/topics!
. Ready for Ss doing gallery walks! Already super ideas.
A1: I love VTS to introduce any content area. Allows for great ?s and thinking.
Creative movement, music performance and song writing!
You're just in time, Valerie. We just started Q1.
A1 Sketchnoting incorporates sketching with notetaking to cement comprehension.
Great examples starting with adding visuals to notes adds a great element to learning! https://t.co/1aFie4NzvH
A1: Visual graphic organizers, un-journaling across content areas (specifically Sci/SS), building models using clay/mixed media
. A1: Sketchnoting, so "brain-friendly" assists memory & is so much fun!
In my room, this is when Ss "write" a reflection using as few words as possible. They convey thoughts using images.
Yes! Sketchnotes always helped me recall what I learned so much easier in school, it's so helpful for students!
a1. Cross subject liaison between teachers. Why aren't we painting Shakespeare's world? Collaging time stables? Acting geography?
YES! I learned to do Sketchnotes fromm at
https://t.co/0ImCdZvx0E
A1 Sketchnoting incorporates sketching with notetaking to cement comprehension.
A1: An "easy" way is by singing along with fun parody-style songs that teach content. has a great channel!
Q2 What are the benefits of using art to engage students in other content areas?
Do you have any examples you can tweet out? WHat grade level? Sounds awesome! https://t.co/YjWvM32eRe
In my room, this is when Ss "write" a reflection using as few words as possible. They convey thoughts using images.
A1) Movement is so engaging for littles! Intentional water cycle dancing was a hit.
A2: Ss who may not be intrinsically motivated to learn about, say, SS could be "hooked" by the artistic element.
A2 adds dynamic visualizations which help bring the learning to life & hooks visual & physical learners https://t.co/1kc8aKtQoV
All great ways to embed art into core curriculum. https://t.co/VRuxMy1Epb
a1. Cross subject liaison between teachers. Why aren't we painting Shakespeare's world? Collaging time stables? Acting geography?
Don't have any examples with me tonight, but I can snap a pic tomorrow when I get to school. . Ss love it!
Retweeting Q2 for https://t.co/XuZknDJwZp
Q2 What are the benefits of using art to engage students in other content areas?
I had an assignment where kids wrote songs, created graphic novels, made videos, and more to show their understanding.
Finishing our weather unit now. We made our own dance moves. I'd be interested to see how our moves compare!
. Q2: Arts enliven curricular content & themes, offer viewpoints from collective voices.
A2 Art makes learning meaningful and fun!
A2) Arts Integration connects cognitive learning and engagement. Ss don't even know they are learning!
Hello. A little late to the party! Nardi, fourth grade teacher, Stormy Florida! Doing more learning tonight!
Hello Jess from CT. A2: Using visuals (pics/illustrations) can give Ss a way to express themselves when they can't find the words
Hi and !
Late to the party. Michelle, OR, 4th grade
A3 Most of all, creating arts creates a memory for children that leaves an imprint of the learning on their hearts forever!
They got to pick? What a great way for them to take ownership of their learning.
https://t.co/SxHpQaN8WD
I had an assignment where kids wrote songs, created graphic novels, made videos, and more to show their understanding.
ohhhhhhhhhhhhh I can't miss my weekly "fix" of this chat! Meredith from IL joining others who slid in a tad late.
So you trick them.
Very HACKY!
https://t.co/cRV6cD2pY9
A2) Arts Integration connects cognitive learning and engagement. Ss don't even know they are learning!
Yes! Adding movement & physical arts like 3D in class is refreshing & helps physical learners https://t.co/bs8EEr7QH8
A1) Movement is so engaging for littles! Intentional water cycle dancing was a hit.
Welcome Jessie. Just glad you're here.
Just in time for Q3, Nardi.
A2) Art stimulates the senses, stories & emotions. Which helps because ALL is emotional.
I wondered....
https://t.co/FFtWvhkFIx
ohhhhhhhhhhhhh I can't miss my weekly "fix" of this chat! Meredith from IL joining others who slid in a tad late.
A2: In science, Ss who document labs using drawings or photos have a reference for the sequence of events or process they studied
A2: I help my Ss connect math, social studies, lit. and art. Most self-directed time of day. Ss feel true ownership over artwork.
Hey Great to see you again, welcome to !
More likely to recall it later too. https://t.co/4oFKC9zfG7
A2: In science, Ss who document labs using drawings or photos have a reference for the sequence of events or process they studied
A2 having a son with LD, he excels in music. His passion is music. He expresses himself with music, specifically Jazz.
Q3 A strength of art it's expressiveness-what visuals, music, or theatrical elements do you use in class to set a tone for students?
Does he play music when he studies or works on other projects? https://t.co/HPzkql8fS8
A2 having a son with LD, he excels in music. His passion is music. He expresses himself with music, specifically Jazz.
Retweeting Q3.
https://t.co/iICfPSmocd
Q3 A strength of art it's expressiveness-what visuals, music, or theatrical elements do you use in class to set a tone for students?
A3 I worked w/ students to create inspirational murals which set the tone & add to my classroom walls! https://t.co/wRTTxj289g
A2 Curiosity is an endangered species. Alas. Bring on the art--by the truckload!--to do what you can to preserve it.
A3. In our at-risk school Ss need lots of movement and music is often used as well as their music classes.
A3: Alllllll the visuals - diagrams, illustrations, mixed media presentations, video clips, graffiti tasks to collaborate
Think of the song that takes you back to High School moments. So powerful when neurons fire together. https://t.co/9t34g89e7s
A2 Most of all, art experiences create memories that leave an imprint of learning on a child's heart forever! #TMchat#
A2: Art hits different learning styles and can help Ss retain more!
I use storytelling. It is an amazing way to get kids engaged.
That's great! I started playing music every a.m.for kids. It centers them and starts day w/ smile https://t.co/8SagB8i4HW
A2 having a son with LD, he excels in music. His passion is music. He expresses himself with music, specifically Jazz.
A:3 Im a storyteller usin mix of stories & music 2 set atmoshre in my clss. Relating 2Ss w my life experiences/ tyin it to lesson
A3: Music during transitions (classical/instrumental), musical content parodies found on , rapping about math
a lot about art is experimentation. Experimentation only occurs on growth mindset. So art creates better lifelong learning culture
A3 Each morning, the students enter the classroom to soft music that sets a peaceful tone to start our day.
~~ if I had a hammer, I'd hammer in the morning ... I'd hammer in the evening ...~~
I just finished a unit on prepositions and adverbs with dance. My Ss loved it and quickly grasped the concepts!
Q2: Using art and creativity in teaching math and science you engage students who might normally shy away from those subjects
A3: And STORYTELLING to engage and motivate learners! Definitely an art form, and one of my favorite "hooks"
A3. Ss love their transition time when it is accompanied by music.
A3) Class mtg we all have created movements representing our names & I use a call "domo choco latte" where Ss call back w/movement.
A2 Art depends on many different disciplines. A good teacher--hell, a mediocre one--can hone in on any one of 'em & find a lesson.
. Neat! Music energizes or calms. Baroque matches the heartbeat & soothes the soul.
A3: Visuals? TMs of course! 😃
A3: The music I play is instrumental pop. They listen hard to figure songs out. Pretty soon they supply the words!
May 31st looks like my fav with educational leadership.
. Lucky Ss. Sounds like a great time!
Do you play music when they write? Mixed reports on benefits.
Storytelling is amazing for connecting & learning have you checked out they have some great free resources!
A3. Our marvelous asst. principal purchased five gallon containers and the Ss love their new "drums" during recess.
. A3: Yes! Art can be a wonderful SET piece, hooking Ss as a transition or lesson chunk.
Hello, Hurisa from NJ. Learning a lot from all of you tonight!!
A3 I set my students to write with "Blue Monk" in the background: https://t.co/vQuTf22Msa Inspires the hell out of 'em!
You can dance to:
above
across
after
along
at
before
behind
below
beside
between
by
down
during
for
from?
https://t.co/C49skxYDvP
I just finished a unit on prepositions and adverbs with dance. My Ss loved it and quickly grasped the concepts!
Always. Never loud or intense. There were a few days we went without due to busted speakers, and my Ss missed it!
. I'd use Baroque or be careful w/ selection. Rhythm is good, analytic Ss like quiet.
Great to have you in tonight. Chime in when you want.
Exactly! Then you can add slowly, sharply, quickly, smoothly 😀
A3 I use photographs and paintings to boost literacy skills. We read the picture and tell its story.
What a great idea!
Create music at recess.
https://t.co/hugGIBk8tj
A3. Our marvelous asst. principal purchased five gallon containers and the Ss love their new "drums" during recess.
~~ this land is your land, this land is our land ... from California to the red ...~~ another oldie!
Q4 Creativity is a central aspect of the arts-what are some ways art can be used in any subject to get students thinking creatively?
A3 I "hook" my Ss using a painting, a song, a drawing, etc.
A4 Design problems are great for creative thinking & collaboration-we're working on a NYS Pavillion redesign https://t.co/c6auT4FF5S
A4: Visual brainstorming, collaborating using a graffiti task, role-play, student created kinesthetic activities to learn content
Love it! I have read about this! https://t.co/6KZfV2DrSB
A3 I use photographs and paintings to boost literacy skills. We read the picture and tell its story.
A4: Historical pictures before SS units, art for writing prompts
A4) I love tableau as an assessment for all Ss including the audience.My Ss now choose to show me with this art form.
A4 Writing original poems and songs to reflect on learning is powerful for children.
What is one you've used recently?
https://t.co/6MgdsK98kI
A3 I "hook" my Ss using a painting, a song, a drawing, etc.
Yes! Put a limited # of supplies out and ask them to make a certain structure. Boat, rollercoaster, bridge.. https://t.co/LEg2wVfuDA
A4 Design problems are great for creative thinking & collaboration-we're working on a NYS Pavillion redesign https://t.co/c6auT4FF5S
A4 It's important to celebrate each act of creativity!
Synectics is a great way to get Ss thinking creatively/deeply about concepts. Ss look at art & reflect how it's similar to concept.
Our ELA teachers have students analyze and critique artwork and then ask them to write about it
A4) Putting art in STEM to make STEAM increases creativity.
I love synectics! Great suggestion.
A4 served as a bridge between cultures with our Japanese student visitor-it became a language! https://t.co/yQenUfxK0L
Q5 Many teachers avoid incorporating arts because they aren't "artsy" how can this be overcome?
Not familiar with synetics. Looking into this!
Even the scientists see the benefit of arts. https://t.co/eIqMkyvJtv
A4) Putting art in STEM to make STEAM increases creativity.
A5 It's important to bring an open growth mindset to working w/ the , everyone has creative strengths- experiment & have fun!
. Even when we don't feel artistic, kiddos are! Super way to engage Ss & watch that flow state happen!
A5: Debunking the myth that all art in the classroom is visual art. And encouraging growth mindset, for students and teachers.
Great to hear makes a fantastic & interesting writing prompt- it's authentic & adds layers of learning!
A5) Ts need a clear understanding of arts integration. It's not fluff. It's intentional and standards based.
A4) Totally depends on the content; the predictability/non-linearity; the bounds of "policy." https://t.co/3Hhj1ozZW7
. Good point. Close relationships.
A4:Today I had Ss use one lrg paper to create and collaborate in groups,changing themes communication is key to success
The suggests using a piece of art of a picture to prompt questioning for Question Formulation Technique
Can't wait to see answers to this one! I need ideas.
Q5 Modeling....Teachers need to see arts integration in action to understand its worth! Seeing is believing!
A5: Let them teach your class something they ate passionate about while you share art with their class! Ss might ask for more!
A5) We need to redefine what "the arts" are. I'm quite "mechanical" by nature, until you reexamine what is.
Amazingly kids are artistic until someone tells them otherwise! https://t.co/nxaCMwofvr
. Even when we don't feel artistic, kiddos are! Super way to engage Ss & watch that flow state happen!
Wow. Who would tell kids they're not artistic?
A5 It's not about being artsy! It's about opening the imaginations of our children and teaching them to create!
A5: Step out of the "comfort zone". You'll never know unless you try.
A5 It's about creating a safe environment for making and learning from our mistakes. We just have to spread the word! Share the love
It's such an important point! love seeing teachers like you embracing creativity!
Q6 Art history is a great resource for visualizing subject matter, share artists or artworks which might aid a discipline you teach
Growth mindset right there.
You can't.... YET.
https://t.co/FMraAkAVlD
A5: Step out of the "comfort zone". You'll never know unless you try.
A5: Our ipads have allowed Ss who thought they weren't artistic to shine on the tablet. Video creation, slides,
Retweet Q6.
https://t.co/egxzF9soUA
Q6 Art history is a great resource for visualizing subject matter, share artists or artworks which might aid a discipline you teach
A6 Here's some great examples of classic & contemporary history to teach various school subjects https://t.co/cjGr1CPnRK
Has this expanded students' (and maybe teachers') definition of "art"?
Minneapolis Institute of Arts sent great works of art (copies) to our school each month. We rotated them from classroom to classroom
A6: Using to review winds and air pressure, prompting discussion of diffs between day/night air temp
A6) I love starting with this to introduce VTS. Kinders connected his big muscles to a big brain! https://t.co/O4R67jI8EQ
. Q6: Art history & reading non-fiction (info-text) are go-togethers, like peas & carrots! Thematic.
Looks like you have some thinkers in that group.
We just studied Kandinsky while learning geometry. The kids created amazing art inspired by his work! https://t.co/Ngx25kVc8Z
. A6: Yes, perfect for Story Grammar.
I love the BFG. Before my littles see him? They have to draw him. ♥️
Wow that's great to hear, love it what a cool program ! https://t.co/zGWiqcUDK6
Minneapolis Institute of Arts sent great works of art (copies) to our school each month. We rotated them from classroom to classroom
A6 George Washington Crossing the Delaware tells a fabulous story that fascinates my kids every year https://t.co/UkieXI6XWz
So you prompt them? What would a BFG look like? https://t.co/B792uFFWoS
I love the BFG. Before my littles see him? They have to draw him. ♥️
Q7 The arts can also be therapeutic- can you share ways you use art to help students relax & center themselves? How are the results?
Retweet Q7. https://t.co/ULZPE5mPor
Q7 The arts can also be therapeutic- can you share ways you use art to help students relax & center themselves? How are the results?
Interesting to think that those paintings are packed away. I wish someone would dust them all off again https://t.co/ez2hZlokel
Wow that's great to hear, love it what a cool program ! https://t.co/zGWiqcUDK6
Minneapolis Institute of Arts sent great works of art (copies) to our school each month. We rotated them from classroom to classroom
I believe our lower elem math has some quilting lessons.
That's perfect! Kandinsky is a versatile artist, his work touches so many subjects!
Is this one of your students?
A7: My Ss, hv choice in art, opn policy if hard day they have freedom to take art time to express in free draw or paint tlk 2 me
Is there a spot in the room where they go or just at their desks?
Yes! What would "a" BFG look like & what could those letters represent? I don't even say he. They share & explain.
A7: Sounds simple, but just adding color to interactive notebook pages - boxing in terms with colored pencil, colored diagrams
A7 Music sets the tone for every subject. Quiet instrumental music helps my kids mellow into the learning and creating
Sorry I missed the chat-am away at a conference.
. Arts are very relaxing & rejuvenating, offer budding artists opportunity to share their creativity & voice. Voila!
What are you learning about at the conference? https://t.co/nEPeiuGnS8
Sorry I missed the chat-am away at a conference.
Huge fan personally - my before bed "therapy" most nights!
Love choice in art it empowers students & strengthens expression & independence, that's great! https://t.co/azhPjIBAf1
A7: My Ss, hv choice in art, opn policy if hard day they have freedom to take art time to express in free draw or paint tlk 2 me
A7) Ss love transformations. Give them a shape or line or object. Brainstorm, pick the original and elaborate then sharpie & color!
Thanks all! Refreshing chat. Can't wait to reconnect more with you. Good night!
. A7: Yes, color aids memory. Von Restorff Effect. Unusual stands out. Distinctiveness.
Thank you again and for another great session!