Lesson Plan: Using the Arts to Navigate Life

How do the arts make life more bearable? Click below to access a one-class lesson plan that uses this George Bernard Shaw quote as its starting point: “Without art, the crudeness of reality would make the world unbearable.”

Here’s a sneak peek:

Objective

Students will be able to:

• Analyze the quote and connect it to their own experiences.
• Identify ways in which the arts help people process.
• Create an artistic response to demonstrate understanding.

Description

In this lesson students will discuss the George Bernard Shaw quote and consider how the arts make life more bearable. Students will explore and analyze works in different mediums that demonstrate how art is used to express emotions in wartime. Students will then apply this knowledge through a short theatrical expression that reflects on how art can transform or interpret reality.

Note: You know your students best. Pay attention to how they’re responding to these discussions and whether you need to take a break. The point is not to upset students.

Time Management: This lesson is scheduled for 60 minutes. If your classes are longer or shorter, adjust accordingly.