School Tours: Exploring Modern Art: Breaking the Rules
Grades 6–12
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What is modern about modern art? Students explore 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 to six tour stops, students engage in activities—such as looking exercises and working in small groups—that foster conversations about works of art. The following skills are promoted:
- Making and voicing careful observations
- Formulating questions that demonstrate curiosity and engagement
- Exploring multiple viewpoints within the group
- Comparing different works of art and articulating connections between them
- Reasoning with evidence from the artworks themselves
- Developing new ideas about modern art
Group Size: Up to 60 students
Length: 75 minutes
Meeting Location: East Building, Entrance (inside)
Museum policies
Student lunches
General information
How can I prepare my students for this tour?
What Gallery resources are available on this theme?
- NGAClassroom: Art since 1950
- NGALoanfinder: Inquiring Eye: Exploring Modern Art: Breaking the Rules
What is object-based teaching and learning?