Algorithms Unplugged. The teacher can facilitate a paper weaving project where students create and follow a pattern while exploring and understanding the connections between coding, computing, and fiber-arts.

Students will explore both historical and contemporary purposes of masks in various cultures. Students will analyze visual principles and properties of masks construction. Students will communicate personal stories and identity through the creation of masks using contemporary materials. 

Students will examine portraits of diverse artists to inspire unique self-portraits. Using  proportions and mirrors to draw self-portraits, students will enhance photocopies of their pencil drawings by adding visual representations of their likes, backgrounds, hopes, and dreams, as well as color. The first pencil portrait will be glued on the outside of an envelope, while the second colorful portrait can be slipped out from inside to reveal a deeper look at the student’s identities.  

In this Thematic Exploration, students will explore the different ways artists represent individuals in portraits. They will learn to gather clues about the time period in which the portrait was created, the lives of the subjects, and the thoughts of the artists.

Using portraits from the VMFA's collection, students will explore the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of portraiture. Guiding questions are woven throughout the activity, alongside a close examination of seven different portraits from a variety of different eras and cultures. Students are encouraged to observe, interpret, analyze, and reflect thoughtfully in each step. This activity also includes summative reflection questions to wrap up the conversation, as well as an optional "Create Your Own Portrait" activity.