ALL SUBJECTS : The next time you are waiting for the train at the Rockwell stop, take a look at the outdoor mural painted there. Ask yourself these questions:

Who painted this mural?

Why did they paint it?

How does this mural reflect our community?

I don't know the "real" answers to these questions---that's MY homework for this year!

Another idea is for you to choose one of the women featured in the mural and create an imaginary story of her life. I've done this many times---Boy, the train arrives before you know it when you are doing this activity!

SCIENCE INTEGRATION : We are concerned about e-waste awareness in our school. I need your creativity, ideas and help! Think of interesting ways to express the importance of recycling e-waste (old, biohazardous, out-of-date technology) that is both beautiful and meaningful. Email me your ideas or bring in your designs to Room 305 before school. I can't wait for your feedback!

ALL SUBJECTS : Just for fun... Try to draw a picture in three parts by folding your paper in thirds. Create a beginning on the first folded third, a middle on the second and the ending on the last third of your paper. Does your drawing tell a story? I bet it does!

ALL SUBJECTS : Learning about artists and art forms can be fascinating in a variety of ways. Each of us experiences something unique when we look at a painting or a sculpture or picture made of light. Take a moment to check out www.artcyclopedia.com and pick an artist to explore. Become an expert on your artist and share your experience in art class---any class, any day of the week!

Be creative every day! You can build literacy each time you draw a picture that tells a story. Share your artwork with family and friends. Please share your "at-home" artwork with Mrs. Vecchioni before school. I'm in Room 305 at 8:30 almost every day and I'd love to see it!