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Exploring Art and Animals: Adaptation, Comics, and Stress

In this hour-long course, students will learn how drawing with purpose can help us decipher captivating adaptations in the wild, and gain insight into their own stress responses.
Mr.Medina
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(13)
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

US Grade 5 - 8
Join us for an exciting journey into the world of art, science, and self-reflection in "Exploring Art and Animal Adaptation: Comics, Science, and Stress Relief." In this interactive and engaging class, students will explore the fascinating concepts of abstraction in comics and cartoons while simultaneously discovering the wonders of adaptation in animals. By drawing connections between these two realms, students will gain a deeper understanding of how everything in a drawing and every trait in an animal is there for a reason.

The class begins with a fun drawing activity, where students will explore the significance of ideas represented in comics and cartoons. Through lively discussions and sharing of drawings, we will delve into the importance of every element on the page, unlocking the power of abstraction.

Next, we will examine popular shows such as "Avatar: The Last Airbender," "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," and "Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!" to analyze how characters are styled differently and discuss the underlying reasons for these artistic choices. Drawing inspiration from these examples, we will collectively analyze a comic panel, applying our newfound understanding of abstraction.

Transitioning from the art world to the animal kingdom, we will embark on an exploration of animal adaptation. From general adaptation in the wild to specific topics like coloration and countershading, we will uncover the incredible ways animals have evolved to survive in their environments. We will also touch upon the captivating subject of color changes in ocean-dwelling creatures and the fascinating mechanisms behind various types of eyes and their perception of light.

Lastly, we will connect these adaptation themes to human experiences by investigating why we react the way we do to stress. Through a thoughtful examination of our physiological responses, we will discover the importance of measures like meditation and reflection in managing stress and promoting well-being.

Throughout the class, students will have ample opportunities to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share their insights. While the class primarily revolves around discussions, there will be engaging drawing activities to further enhance the learning experience.

No prior knowledge or experience is required for this class. All curious minds are welcome to embark on this exploration of art, science, and self-awareness. Join us and discover how abstraction, adaptation, and stress management are intricately connected in the fascinating tapestry of life.

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This is an autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergences-friendly classroom. I myself am neurodivergent and this an open space where a student does not need to mask. Miscommunication will not be assumed to be rudeness, and I want curiosity to thrive. I will additionally, joyfully always accommodate best I can if any needs or learning strategies are provided ahead of time.
Learning Goals
Students will recognize the interconnectedness between the intentional elements in a drawing and the useful adaptations found in nature, fostering a holistic understanding of how every detail matters and serves a specific function in art and science.
learning goal

Other Details

Parental Guidance
We will be briefly be discussing topics of stress management (meditation/reflection) and symptoms of stress (heavy breathing, sweat, nervousness, etc.) in a scientific manner of why these happen and what we can do to help minimize stress. Additionally, during visual analysis, students will see family-friendly clips from 'Avatar the last Airbender' (https://youtu.be/3BlyEasNRis), 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' (contains animated spider bite scene) (https://youtu.be/3v9Pfg4Ocbg), and 'Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1xAzPlh4i0).
Supply List
Students must come prepared with a couple sheets of blank paper, and a writing utensil. Pencil is recommended, but they may use whatever they desire to draw with.
Language of Instruction
English
Joined June, 2023
4.9
13reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Boston University
B.A. in Biology with a specialization in Ecology and Conservation from Boston University, attended courses for evolution and the graphic novel. Past experience teaching variants of this lesson to middle-schoolers in NJ private schools and in MIT's Full STEAM Ahead remote highschooler program.

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$20

per class
Meets once
90 min

Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
3-8 learners per class

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