Each curricular theme includes background information on the works of art, short classroom activity ideas, in-depth lesson plans and related vocabulary. Explore and use these resources in your own way.

		Painting the Light Explore the science behind impressionism.
		Reading Art This theme builds essential comprehension strategies and draws parallels between art, reading and writing. The curriculum provides suggestions for teaching students in grades K-8 to use proficient reading strategies to analyze works of art in much the same way they read strategically.
		Art & Nature Seven works of art represent a variety of connections to nature. Some show how artists use natural materials, such as clay, stone or natural pigments, to create their works of art, and others demonstrate the way artists closely observe and reproduce the details and phenomena of nature.
		The American Experience Works of art from the NCMA’s permanent collection serve as primary sources for studying and discussing American history with high school students.
		The Mystery of the Poison-Dart Frog Ancient American works of art serve as entry points for discussions about Costa Rican culture, ecosystems and art-making techniques. This theme is to be used in conjunction with the Mystery of the Poison-Dart Frog on-line game.
		North Carolina Connections Works of art by artists with North Carolina connections from the NCMA’s permanent collection and special exhibitions serve as primary sources for studying and discussing themes in North Carolina history and culture with fourth- and eighth-grade students.