Arts Learning

Student learning in creating images, similes and writing skills improved. This was evaluated by pre and post surveys, teacher input, student participation and presentation at public event. Student knowledge and attitude about Dakota culture grew, as demonstrated by student writings, artist's statements as well as pre and post surveys. Teacher and parent input were also used to demonstrate intended outcomes. The Perpich Center's Descriptive Review was also used to assess. Staff workshop was well attended and residency was reinforced by staff input. Students had hands-on" work with Dakota artist Fern Cloud, as well as language specialist Teresa Peterson. The field trips to Lower Sioux and Walnut Grove also exposed the students to Dakota history and culture as well as early pioneer life. Students actually made butter and corn bread and had the opportunity to write about what they experienced. They made dolls using the materials used by early pioneers. The days spent with poet, Florence Dacey helped them learn how to write poetry using the skills she taught them. She also taught them how to revise and present their work. 2: Students gained both an understanding of the written word and an appreciation for the culture of the Dakota. This was evaluated by student work, teacher evaluation of student improvement and parent input. Students were given pre and post surveys and these were compared. Students shared their knowledge and understanding in class discussions as well as at the public event. Dakota hide paintings and other art work was displayed complete with artist's statements. Students shared their understanding while hosting the lunch following the art show/ poetry reading. Public was impressed with the depth of understand and composure that the students displayed. We did not anticipate any barriers to this project. Our school is completely accessible and we held our public reading in a very accessible auditorium. We considered that the parent of one student has advanced ALS (Lou Gehrig’s) and needed a large area for her motorized wheelchair. She was able to attend and enjoyed her son's poem. We also needed a large space for our hide painting sessions. Our janitors were able to find such a space with all the materials needed by the artist. Again, cooperation with everyone involved with the project makes things work well. We communicated well in advance to the needs of the project and these needs were met by our school and all involved."