Teachers
Online Resources & Loans
Exploring Modern Art: Breaking the Rules
Grades 6–12
What is modern about modern art? Students investigate the ways artists "break the rules" when they depart from realistic representation, use innovative techniques, and engage the viewer as a partner in the creation of meaning.
LOOKING AND LEARNING SKILLS
During four or five tour stops, students engage in activities—such as looking exercises and small group work—that foster conversations around works of art. The following skills are promoted:
- Making and articulating careful observations
- Formulating questions that demonstrate curiosity and engagement
- Exploring multiple viewpoints within the group
- Comparing and connecting different works of art
- Reasoning with evidence from the artworks themselves
- Developing new ideas about modern art
EXAMPLE WORKS FEATURED ON TOUR
LOGISTICAL INFORMATION
Group Size: Up to 60 students
Length: 75 minutes
Meeting Location: East Building, Entrance (inside)
ADDITIONAL GALLERY RESOURCES
- Art since 1950 (printable learning resource)
- Inquiring Eye: Early Modernism (teaching packet)
Schedule a Tour
Note: We are no longer accepting tour requests for spring 2013. We will begin accepting fall 2013 requests on August 1.
Pre-Visit Information
Watch a video or download a presentation to show your students prior to your visit. View our museum policies, location, parking, accessiblity, security, lunch options, and other important information about visiting.
Questions
Our tour scheduler is available to answer questions on Monday through Wednesday between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. (September through May). Please contact her at (202) 842-6249 schooltourrequests@nga.gov.
Also see our Frequently Asked Questions about School Tours.
Feedback
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