Art integration starts with the aspiration to see students more engaged and excited about learning. The research shows that bringing art concepts into the math classroom not only benefits engagement levels, but aids in constructing a deeper understanding of math concepts. We’ll cover some of the benefits of art integration and highlight the reasons why math and art concepts make such a great pair.
However, successful art integration requires training and intentionality for educators. Collaboration and commitment to planning ahead are needed in order to successfully integrate art into subjects like math, science, social studies or language arts.
Why Math and Art Work Together
Art integrated lessons and projects have been shown, over nearly 30 years of research, to be a boost to the effectiveness of educating confident, creative, young minds. Incorporating art has offered the following benefits to participating students:
- Improved standardized test scores
- Individualized learning opportunities
- Reduction in classroom disruptions
- Increased attendance rate
So, what makes art a natural companion to many math concepts? The answer is in changing the way concepts are learned and practiced. Some of the most basic art principles like balance, proportion, and variety, and concepts like line, space, and shape can be found in math equations and story problems. Students use art skills when finding math solutions, and math concepts when creating art.
Instead of separating these skills and concepts, the similarities between the two are used to reinforce both subjects. Applying a math lesson on measuring lines to the creation of an art project with specific measurements allows students to utilize more areas of the brain at the same time. Projects and activities like these increase engagement and understanding, and allow teachers to see if a student requires intervention.
Integrated Lesson Plans for Math and Art
For those interested in taking advantage of the research-backed benefits of art integration, math class is a great place to start. New Pacon Art Integration Kits offered exclusively by School Specialty are the all-in-one option for busy teachers who want to make the most of their students’ time. Building 21st century skills is a crucial part of preparing for upper-level education and careers. Hands-on activities like these can be part of building the foundational skills that will support 21st century skills down the road.
Students of all ages can benefit from a more engaging and creative educational experience, regardless of learning style or artistic talent. Click the link below to find downloadable sample lesson plans from the Art Integration Kits for students in K-2.
Download Art Integrated Lesson Plans
