Arts Education: Grades 6 to 8

Note: The list of resources in this section provides an update to Arts Education: A Bibliography for Grades 6 to 8 (1994).

Adventures in Art Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Davis Publications, Inc. (LRDC/FHW), 1998. pgn. varies. Order numbers follow.

Recommended components in this series include:

This multi-level sequential, program combines studio activities, perceptual awareness, art appreciation and art history. Level 6 includes a student text, teacher edition and a choice of visual support components.

The student text is thematically organized into four units. It is supported with questions for discussion, art vocabulary and suggestions for addressing multiculturalism.

Large colour reproductions are available, along with teacher guides containing information to help the teacher and the student view and respond to each work of art.

Other visual support components for enrichment and extension include overhead transparencies and slide sets.

The teacher. s edition provides lesson plans, teaching strategies, studio techniques and ideas for evaluation and cross-cultural connections. Please note that this resource includes a great deal of information. It would be possible to extend the teaching of the concepts introduced over two years.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Visual Art

Adventures in Music: Opera (Print-Non-Fiction). Bennett, Roy. Cambridge University Press (CUP), 1996. 48 p. ISBN 0-521-56935-4 ($17.00 U.S. pbk.). Audiocassette - ISBN 0-521-56944-3 ($52.50 U.S. cassette).

This book gives an introduction to opera complete with definitions and black-and-white photographs. It then goes on to give short descriptions of the plots of 12 famous operas, along with printed music excerpts. There are suggestions and exercises to assist the students in engaging in the listening process, as well as follow-up questions and activities. Please note that answers are not given for the follow-up questions. This well-written, easy-to-understand summary of operas provides an excellent introduction to opera.

An audiocassette that contains recorded examples of the excerpts used in the book is available.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

Alexander Calder and His Magical Mobiles (Print-Non-Fiction). Lipman, Jean and Aspinwall, Margaret. Hudson Hills Press, Inc. (NBN), 1981. 96 p. ISBN 0-933920-17-2 ($19.95 hdc.).

Here is a book that truly captures all the joy and exuberance of Alexander Calder and his unique art. Calder is a well-known figure in the history of modern sculpture. This resource presents a treasury of favourite works by Calder, 40 of them in full colour, as well as many fascinating photographs of the artist at work. The text tells the story of his life and career and relates his working methods and his own feelings about his art. The book also includes a guide to many of the Calder sculptures that can be seen in museums and public spaces around the world.

Suggested Use: Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Art (Print-Non-Fiction). Grimshaw, Caroline. (Connections Series). World Book, Inc. (LRDC), 1996. 31 p. Order no. 9913 ($6.95 pbk.).

This resource is part of the Connections! Series. Information is presented in a question-and-answer format that is appealing and creative. In the first section, students are encouraged to discover what art is, who makes it and why the world needs it. The second section includes information about how art is made and why it looks like it does. The third section develops an understanding of how artists and their work affect and reflect the world. The book may be read from start to finish, or in sections following the paths suggested by special "Connect!" boxes. The book presents a great deal of information packaged in small bite-sized clips, and would be most useful for students wanting to do quick research on the historical and cultural components of art. A comprehensive index is included.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Art First Nations: Tradition and Innovation in the Circumpolar World (Art Prints). Zuk, W. M. and Dalton, Robert. Art Image Publications (LRDC), 1999. Set of 3 units - Order no. 9862 ($170.95 kit).

(CAN, I/M) This beautiful three-unit resource examines the circumpolar regions of the world: Alaska, Arctic Canada, Greenland, Arctic Scandinavia and Siberia. Each unit contains a set of laminated, full-colour prints of works in various media and a teacher. s guide.

Each guide features biographies of the artists, visual and cultural notes on the works, references and resources and suggestions for related activities. The program uses legends and storytelling to encourage visualization and self-expression among the students. It also provides cross-curricular links to creative writing, the visual and performing arts, social studies and other subjects.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Artsource: Performing Arts Package 1 (Kit). The Music Center of Los Angeles County. (Glencoe Middle School Art Series). Glencoe/McGraw Hill (MHR), 1999. ISBN 0-02-662381-1 ($99.55 kit).

Excerpts from different plays and samples of music from different cultures are presented in video and audio format in this American resource. It is composed of short summaries that highlight artists of stature from diverse cultures along with a selected work from each one. s art. Each work is illustrated with an audio or video sample. The only Canadian selection is "Suite of French Canadian Dances" by the AMAN International Folk Ensemble.

An instructor. s guide contains information about the artist and the creative process that led to the work, the work being studied and discussion questions designed to elicit thinking responses from the students. Suggestions for classroom activities are included, but teachers are encouraged to create their own lessons from the materials provided according to the experience, age and background of their students.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Dance; Music; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

The Aztecs (Print-Non-Fiction). Chapman, Gillian. (Crafts From the Past Series). Heinemann Educational Bks (LRDC), 1997. 37 p. Order no. 18119 ($26.30 hdc.).

This resource presents projects designed to recreate some of the arts and crafts found in the Aztec culture. The activities include instructions for creating woven textiles, mosaic masks, jewelry, featherwork and wheeled toys. Information about the historical and cultural background and the significance of the specific art form is included in each activity. A list of materials necessary and illustrations showing the techniques for each project are included. A glossary of Aztec terminology and art terms is located at the end of the book.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Social Studies: Grades 7-9

Canada Is& Music: 5-6. Rev. ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Harrison, John, et al. Gordon V. Thompson Music (LRDC), 1995. 287 p. Order no. 9864 ($27.95 hdc.). Teacher's Guidebook - Order no. 9865 ($20.95 coil-bound). Set of 9 Compact Discs - Order no. 9866 ($119.70 set).

(CAN) Canada Is& Music is designed specifically for teachers in Canada. It consists of a student textbook, a teacher. s guidebook and a set of CDs. This resource contains over 150 songs to enjoy and to help teach the elements of music. The units of study integrate music with other areas of the curriculum through various techniques including poetry, drama activities, movement suggestions and recipes. The new Grades 5-6 program is divided into units that include "Making Musical Instruments," "Medieval Studies" and "Exploring Themes and Variations." The program provides a comprehensive study of the orchestra and its instruments with specific listening selections.

The recordings on the CDs include all the songs with separate accompaniment tracks.

The teacher. s guide has step-by-step lesson plans and strategies including assessment ideas.

The listening materials and activities in this resource will help take children beyond the classroom to the world of music. New editions of other grades in this series are still in the pre-publication stage.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Chuck Close Up Close. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Greenberg, Jan and Jordan, Sandra. DK Publishing, Inc. (GDS), 1998. 48 p. ISBN 0-7894-2486-X ($23.95 hdc.).

The contemporary American painter Chuck Close is featured in this exciting biography. Close came to prominence in the late 1960s for his super-realistic giant heads. portraits up close. The authors provide plenty of quotes and information about the artist. s childhood in a simple direct style by using an appealing combination of biographical exposition and quotations by Close. Over two dozen colour reproductions and photographs help the reader to understand the evolution of this major artist. An illustrated essay about the history of portraiture included in the back matter asks the reader several direct questions, providing a springboard for group discussion. A glossary, a bibliography and a museum listing are also included. Readers will likely be inspired to consider the possibilities for their own creativity.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

The Clay Ladies (Print-Fiction). Bedard, Michael and Tait, Les, illus. Tundra Books Inc. (CDS), 1999. unp. ISBN 0-88776-385-5 ($19.95 hdc.).

(CAN) This long, picture-book story is based on the lives of two famous sculptors, Frances Loring and Florence Wyle, who worked and lived together in an old Toronto church from 1920 to 1960. The story is told through the eyes of a small girl who first came to the Clay Ladies for help in tending a wounded bird. She returned again and again to receive care for her bird and also to watch the sculptors work with clay. Inspired by their creativity, she grew up to be a sculptor too. In glowing detail, the full-page illustrations capture the beauty of the wonder of making art. This book could be used as a read-aloud for an introduction to working with clay.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Dance Lexie Dance (Video). Cinema Guild (CIG), 1996. 15 min. No order number is required. ($59.95 U.S.).

This short film is set in Ireland. A young girl who is still grieving the death of her mother has dreams of becoming a River Dancer. Her father helps her capture her dream, and in the process they come to accept the recent death in their family, and grow closer as a father and daughter. This is a touching, realistic film. It does not include a great deal of dancing, but addresses the reality of the hard work necessary to make a dream come true.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Dance

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Dancing (Video). (Silver Burdett Ginn Music Magic Video Library Series). Prentice Hall Inc. (PRN), 1991. 15 min. ISBN 0-382-26714-1 ($52.95).

Various dances from Africa, Spain, Cambodia, Poland, Hawaii and Alaska are featured in this video. The importance of the oral tradition in preserving dances and the role dance plays in preserving traditions in culture are emphasized.

The teacher. s guide provides excellent background information and includes vocabulary words.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Dance

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

Discovering Great Artists: Hands-On Art for Children in the Styles of the Great Masters (Print-Non-Fiction). Kohl, MaryAnn F. and Solga, Kim. (Bright Ideas for Learning Series). Bright Ring Publishing (MON), 1996. 141 p. ISBN 0-935607-09-9 ($22.95 pbk.).

This book reveals many unique ideas that offer students hands-on activities to explore the styles and techniques of over 80 visual artists ranging from Giotto to Van Allsburg. The artists are introduced with a brief biography, discussion of their individual style, an art project, a list of needed materials and step-by-step directions. A photograph or drawing of a possible outcome is also included. Icons are used to indicate experience and preparation levels, art techniques and styles of art. A glossary of "Great Art Words" and indexes of materials, artist styles, techniques and activities make this a very user friendly resource.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

Dreaming in Colour: A Music Listening Program (Audiocassette). MacGougan, Sharon. Briarwood Publishing Ltd. (BRW), 1995. ISBN 0-9695073-4-8 ($24.95 cassette).

(CAN) This valuable resource is designed to be a framework for any listening program. The package contains a music tape and teacher notes. The program could be used as an extension of a classical listening program or as a starting point for listening. It blends sound effects with contemporary musical styles.

The teacher notes describe how to set up a listening program in a classroom. This material includes descriptive information about the music as well as activities.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

The Egyptians (Print-Non-Fiction). Chapman, Gillian. (Crafts From the Past Series). Heinemann Educational Bks (SBC), 1997. 37 p. ISBN 1-57572-556-8 ($22.95 hdc.).

This resource presents projects designed to recreate some of the arts and crafts found in the Egyptian culture. Instructions are provided for creating hieroglyphic messages, mummy cases, reed boats, board games and pharaoh. s jewels. Various cultural and historical aspects of life in ancient Egypt and the significance of the specific art form are components of each activity. A list of materials necessary and illustrations showing the techniques for each project are included at the back of the book.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Social Studies: Grades 7-9

Emily Carr: An Introduction to Her Life and Art (Print-Non-Fiction). Newlands, Anne. Firefly Books Ltd. (FIR), 1996. 64 p. ISBN 1-55209-046-9 ($24.95 hdc.). ISBN 1-55209-045-0 ($14.95 pbk.).

(CAN) This book is an engaging and accessible introduction to an important Canadian artist. The text consists of 30 chronologically arranged sections that give a good sense of the difficulties Carr faced and the triumphs she achieved. Short accounts of aspects of Emily Carr. s career are accompanied by pertinent illustrations on the facing pages. The focus is on art, with the biographical information used as a background. Many entries use choice quotations from Carr. s own writing. The book concludes with an account of Carr. s influence on later artists and a tribute to her "vibrancy, courage and determination."

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Entertainment (Video). (Career Options for Women Series). Third Wave Communications Inc. (MGR), 1999. 24 min. Dup. order no. V6848. Teacher's Guide for series - Order no. G6843 ($8.25 loose-leaf).

(CAN) This video from the Career Options for Women Series focuses on the entertainment industry which offers a variety of careers behind the camera as well as in digital post-production and animation. Viewers are given the opportunity to go behind the scenes and explore the entertainment careers of three very creative women. a photojournalist, a film colourist and an animation storyboard artist. The program also assures viewers that Canada. s reputation as "Hollywood North" is well deserved. This means that there is a wealth of opportunities right here at home!

Supporting print is available from Media Group.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level; Communication, Production and Technology

Great African Americans in Music (Print-Non-Fiction). Rediger, Pat. (Outstanding African Americans Series). Crabtree Publishing Company (CRA), 1996. 64 p. ISBN 0-86505-800-8 ($19.16 hdc.).

(CAN) This book is part of the series Great African Americans that acknowledges the contribution of African-American men and women who dared to follow their dreams. With courage, faith and hard work they overcame obstacles in their lives and went on to excel in their fields. Biographical material that includes personality profiles, background information and difficulties encountered by 13 now-famous music personalities is presented in an easily read and interesting format. Photographs, a table of contents and an index make this a valuable resource for students who are interested in pursuing the study of these musicians.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

The Greeks (Print-Non-Fiction). Chapman, Gillian. (Crafts From the Past Series). Heinemann Educational Bks (LRDC), 1998. 39 p. Order no. 18120 ($26.30 hdc.).

This resource presents projects designed to recreate some of the arts and crafts found in the Greek culture. Instructions are provided for creating labyrinths, a bronze helmet and a Trojan horse. Various cultural and historical aspects of life in ancient Greece and the significance of the specific art form are components of each activity. A list of materials necessary and illustrations showing the techniques for each project are included. A glossary of Greek terminology and art terms is located at the back of the book.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Social Studies: Grades 7-9

The Illuminated Life of Maud Lewis (Video). National Film Board of Canada (NFB), 1998. 50 min. Order no. C9198 013 ($39.95).

(CAN) Maud Lewis was disfigured, impoverished and married to a man who "wasn. t exactly Prince Charming," but she produced a torrent of sparkling, joyous paintings. During her lifetime, Maud. s works sold for as little as two dollars each. Today she is Canada. s most famous folk artist. This film tells the story of Maud. s life. from her carefree childhood, to the onset of the rheumatoid arthritis that would cripple her body and gnarl her hands, to the tragic story of the daughter she never knew she had. The beauty and simplicity of the paintings that gave meaning to her life are depicted in this inspiring film.

Suggested Use: Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Kids, Music and Dance 2 Series (Video). Filmoption International (MGR), 1994. 26 min. Duplication order numbers follow.

Recommended titles in this series include:

This series features eight children from around the world who are united by one thing: music. Their instruments are often unusual because they are rooted in the tradition of their country. The series is half-way between documentary and fiction. Each portrait is structured like a story. The still-living traditions, the instrument. s history and the secrets of how it is made are revealed to viewers, at the same time as each child. s unique story is told.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Social Studies: Elementary Level

Lights, Camera, Action!: Making Movies and TV From the Inside Out (Print-Non-Fiction). O'Brien Lisa. Owl Books (FIR), 1998. 64 p. ISBN 1-895688-75-2 ($19.95 hdc.). ISBN 1-895688-76-0 ($12.95 pbk.).

(CAN) An exciting and realistic look at everything young people and their families need to know about show business is presented in an easy-to-read format in this book. A young man, Johnny, has an audition for a movie role, and the book follows his progress until the final film is released. Each section is preceded by a vocabulary list "Screen Speak," and director. s notes embedded throughout each chapter give advice about various elements of acting. The "popcorn trivia" quizzes will likely appeal to young readers. The resource includes an index and a note to parents explaining things to be aware of if a child announces that he or she would like to act professionally in films or television.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Drama

The Man Who Made Parks: The Story of Parkbuilder Frederick Law Olmsted (Print-Non-Fiction). Wishinsky, Frieda and Zhang, Song Nan, illus. Tundra Books Inc. (CDS), 1999. unp. ISBN 0-88776-435-5 ($17.99 hdc.).

(CAN) In 1822, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux won the design competition for New York. s Central Park. Olmsted went on to create many beautiful public parks throughout the United States and Canada. The straightforward text in this picture book is informative, and the many colourful pencil illustrations add greatly to the book. s appeal. The subject of landscape architecture might well be stimulated by the story of this great pioneer who gave the world a precious gift of parks.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

MasterStrokes: Painting and Drawing With the Masters (CD-ROM). Clearvue/eav (LRDC), 1998. Order no. 9933 ($124.25).

Techniques used by artists including Michelangelo, Rubens, Rembrandt, Velasquez, Cezanne and Van Gogh are explored in this program. Users are able to view the underpaintings uncovered by x-rays and raking methods. Six tutorials are included: "Colour," "Composition," "Animation," "Light and Dark," "Hidden Images and Storytelling" and "Special Techniques." The program enables the user to "trace" the works of the Masters in order to understand the elements of shape, line, value and colour. The CD-ROM contains excellent instructions for use and a tutorial with video and audio highlights.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Music (Print-Non-Fiction). Grimshaw, Caroline. (Connections Series). World Book, Inc. (LRDC), 1996. 31 p. Order no. 9914 ($6.95 pbk.).

This resource is part of the Connections Series. Information is presented in a question-and-answer format that is appealing and creative. In the first section, students are encouraged to discover what music really is, and to find out when sound becomes music. The second section includes information about how music is made and what inspires composers. The third section examines music, how it makes us feel and why it moves us. The book may be read from start to finish, or in sections following the paths suggested by special "Connect!" boxes. The book presents a great deal of information packaged in small bite-sized clips, and would be most useful for students wanting to do quick research on the historical and cultural components of music. A comprehensive index is included.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Music Builders Series (Compact Disc). Hardie, Marilyn and Mason, Elaine. Berandol Music Ltd (LRDC), 1998. Order no. 1263 ($95.85).

Music Builders VI from the Music Builders Series is designed to provide the foundation for a year. s work in music. This conceptually based program includes a set of two CDs and a teacher. s manual. The CDs provide the stimulus for all the musical activities outlined in the teacher. s manual. listening, singing, playing, moving, creating and visualizing. The material represents a wide variety of musical styles and includes songs, chants, stories set to music as well as music for listening, playing and moving. Many composers and performers are featured.

The teacher. s manual provides lessons for active music learning experiences through singing, playing, listening, creating, moving and visualizing. Activities which explore the elements of music. melody, rhythm, harmony, timbre, dynamics, style and form are designed for both large and small groups and for individual experiences. The manual gives detailed lesson suggestions for sequential learning. It also provides openings for reinforcement of concepts in other subject areas. Teachers are encouraged to extend the activities and to add their own material.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Music

Musicians (Print-Non-Fiction). Strudwick, Leslie. (Women in Profile Series). Crabtree Publishing Company (CRA), 1998. 48 p. ISBN 0-7787-0009-7 ($19.16 hdc.).

(CAN) This book is a part of the Women in Profile series which is dedicated to remarkable women who have triumphed in their respective fields. The lives and achievements of noted female musicians are chronicled in a short, easily read format. Background information, quick notes and photographs enhance each article. Artists include three Canadian women. Liona Boyd, Ofra Harnoy and Natalie MacMaster. A glossary, suggestions for further reading and an index are included.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Nutcracker: The Untold Story (Video). Sendak, Maurice, illus. (Notes Alive! Series). Minnesota Orchestra (MIO), 1998. 47 min. ISBN 0-9653818-7-0 ($14.95 U.S.).

This holiday tale is retold in charming rhyme combined with bold 3-D animations by Maurice Sendak. It features a live ballet performance and the sounds of the world-class Minnesota Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky. s lush music. The tale of The Nutcracker comes to life through the melding of music, artistry and ballet. The video includes behind-the-scenes interviews with illustrator Maurice Sendak, scriptwriter Pamela Hill Nettleton and music director/conductor Eiji Oue.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Dance

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; Arts Education: Grade 9

On the Day You Were Born (Video). Frasier, Debra. (Notes Alive! Series). Minnesota Orchestra (MIO), 1996. 30 min. ISBN 0-9653818-0-3 ($14.95 U.S.).

The Minnesota Orchestra performs a story concert in this wonderful video. Music and animation come together to tell the story On the Day You Were Born. Pictures from the book are interspersed with music from the orchestra in a unique blending of music and visual art. The author of the book, Debra Frasier, explains the inspiration behind the idea for her book.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Music; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Orff Day by Day: Classroom Projects in Music and Movement (Print-Non-Fiction). Brass, Alice. Can-Ed Media Ltd. (CEM), 1997. 80 p. ISBN 1-896941-02-8 ($20.00 pbk.).

The Orff approach allows children to explore how music is created and what role they can have in its creation. It encourages them to react to music. not only to the notes but also to the form and the rhythm. This reaction is in turn expressed by clapping, body percussion, chants, singing and/or playing instruments that Carl Orff designed in such a way that they are very simple to learn to use. This book outlines nine projects, taking the teacher day by day through a process designed to teach basic music, improvisation and creative movement. This resource will be valuable and inspiring to teachers with some Orff training, or even the newcomer to Orff.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Music; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Parents Aren't Supposed to Like it: Rock & Other Pop Musicians of the 1990s: Volumes 1-3 (Print-Non-Fiction). Bianco, David P., ed. The Gale Group (GALE), 1998. 672 p. ISBN 0-7876-1731-8 ($85.00 U.S. hdc.).

This comprehensive resource contains more than 135 biographical/critical entries on the hottest bands and musicians of the 1990s. The genres include grunge, rap, traditional rock and roll, folk, heavy metal, British pop, ska, art rock, techno and rhythm and blues. Each section begins with an overview of the genre and is followed by alphabetically arranged profiles of musicians from that genre. Portraits and other black-and-white photos of the musicians accompany most entries. Fun facts, historical background and fascinating anecdotes appear in sidebars throughout the volumes. The entries conclude with sections listing awards, further reading sources and contact information. Websites are listed for nearly all the musicians. A thorough subject index for the three-volume set and tables of contents in all three volumes make this an excellent resource for browsing or for research.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

Plays of Belonging: Three Plays. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Deverell, Rex. Playwrights Canada Press (PLCN), 1997. 149 p. ISBN 0-88754-531-9 ($14.95 pbk.).

(SK) These three plays for young audiences speak of the yearning to belong. The title play, "Belonging" is the story of a child with a gift for poetry. but whose very giftedness sets her apart.

"Weird Kid" is about a group of young people who track down a vandal. only to discover their own part in making a classmate feel left out.

"Video Wars" is the story of a refugee child struggling to explain why a video war game is not simple entertainment, but means, rather, a war-torn homeland and a shattered and scattered family.

Each play is preceded by a playwright. s introduction. The real-life situations have possibilities for creative and critical extensions. Teachers are encouraged to have students create their own endings and to use the plays as inspiration for writing other scripts.

Suggested Use: Grade 7; Grade 8; Drama

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9; Health Education: Grades 6 to 9

Rock, Rhythm and Reels: Canada's East Coast Musicians on Stage (Print-Non-Fiction). Fleming, Lee, ed. Ragweed Press, Inc. (GDS), 1997. 207 p. ISBN 0-921556-65-9 ($14.95 pbk.).

(CAN) In order to uncover the charm and passion underlying the flourishing East Coast music industry, Lee Fleming conducted interviews with 47 of Canada. s top musical acts from Atlantic Canada. Sometimes funny, often poignant, the short first-person profiles are candid and revealing. This readable comprehensive collection is both an invaluable resource and an engaging collection of folksy vignettes. Rock, Rhythm and Reels does not offer any critical analysis or historical perspective of the musical industry in Atlantic Canada, but it does provide an introduction to the rich musical heritage found in the East.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level

The Romans (Print-Non-Fiction). Chapman, Gillian. (Crafts From the Past Series). Heinemann Educational Bks (SBC), 1998. 39 p. ISBN 1-57572-734-X ($22.95 hdc.).

This resource presents projects designed to recreate some of the arts and crafts found in the Roman culture. Instructions are provided for creating scrolls, temples, statues and terracotta lamps. Various aspects of life in ancient Rome and the significance of the specific art form are components of each activity. A list of materials necessary and illustrations showing the techniques for each project are included. A glossary of Roman terminology and art terms is located at the end of the book.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Social Studies: Grades 7-9

A Shakespearean Theatre (Print-Non-Fiction). Chrisp, Peter and Hook, Adam, illus. (Look Inside Series). Wayland Publishers, Ltd. (SBC), 1998. 32 p. ISBN 0-7502-2282-4 ($25.00 hdc.).

This book describes life during Shakespeare. s time through the actors, audience and accessories found in a theatre. It raises the curtain on a stage full of peculiar props and performers. This look inside a Shakespearean Theatre contains trivia about the theatre at that time, but is not a resource for planning contextual dramas.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Drama; Student/Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

Share the Music Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Bond, Judy, et al. McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited (LRDC), 2000. pgn. varies. Order numbers follow.

This resource from the multi-level American Share the Music Series uses an integrated thematic approach to build music literacy and understanding through singing, listening, moving, creating, music reading, critical thinking and assessment. The components include a teacher. s edition packaged with piano accompaniment, a student book and a set of CDs. Suggestions for cross-curricular links in English language arts, social studies, science and all four strands in arts education are included. This well-organized and user friendly resource is visually appealing and contains an excellent variety of songs and music. Suggestions for meeting individual needs and assessment and evaluation are included. Teachers may wish to supplement this program with Canadian content.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Music

The Story of the Incredible Orchestra: An Introduction to Musical Instruments and the Symphony Orchestra (Print-Non-Fiction). Koscielniak. Bruce. Houghton Mifflin Company (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 9859 ($18.70 hdc.).

The evolution of the modern symphony orchestra and the instruments that comprise it are presented in this fact-filled excursion through music history. The various eras in the development of the modern orchestra, starting with the instrumental groups at the dawn of the seventeenth century and continuing on up to the present day are described. An informative narrative occupies at least one side of each double-page spread. Watercolour and line drawings fill the pages, providing an upclose look at a variety of musical instruments and methods of sound production. This is a shining tool for adults to share with children who enjoy music and want to know more.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Music

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Talking With Artists: Volume 2. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Cummings, Pat, ed. Simon & Schuster, Inc. (DIS), 1995. 96 p. ISBN 0-689-80310-9 ($26.95 hdc.).

The second volume in the Talking With Artists Series presents the value both of practising old techniques and trying new ones. Thirteen artists are profiled in a question-and-answer format. Each entry includes examples of the artist. s works from childhood and adulthood and information gathered from questions about the illustrator. s life story, normal day, family and favourite materials for making art. Pictures of each artist as a child and an adult personalize the profiles. Appended are bibliographies of five books by each illustrator and several pages of "secret techniques" for budding young artists. This is an informative, enjoyable book that is likely to inspire many children to draw.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level

Tallchief: America's Prima Ballerina (Print-Non-Fiction). Tallchief, Maria, Wells, Rosemary and Kelley, Gary, illus. Viking Penguin (CDS), 1999. 28 p. ISBN 0-670-88756-0 ($22.99 hdc.).

(I/M) Maria Tallchief entranced audiences in ballets such as Firebird, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. In this biographical picture book ballerina Maria Tallchief describes her childhood on an Osage reservation, the development of her love of dance and her rise to success in that field. Tallchief. s single-minded passion, conveyed in this clear, occasionally poetic narrative would hold appeal and meaning for an audience beyond that of hopeful ballerinas. Gary Kelley. s use of pastel captures the drama of the dance, both in the studio and on the stage.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Dance

Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; English Language Arts: Elementary Level

Tomie dePaola: His Art & His Stories (Print-Non-Fiction). Elleman, Barbara. Putnam Publishing (PBC), 1999. 218 p. ISBN 0-399-23129-3 ($50.00 hdc.).

Tomie dePaola is among the best known, best loved artist-authors creating books for children today. His art and his stories, filled with imagination, humour, elegance and curiousity, emanate from a love of life reflected in everything he does. In this detailed, copiously illustrated and beautifully produced book, Barbara Elleman explores Tomie dePaola as artist and illustrator. The book looks first at dePaola. s family life and then at the extraordinary scope of his work. autobiographical picture books, folktales, Christmas themes, religious stories and more. The book contains over 200 illustrations that help to give a fresh appreciation of this unique artist-author. Notes, a chronology, a bibliography and an index are also included.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; Arts Education: Secondary Level; English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9; English Language Arts 10; English Language Arts 20; English Language Arts 30

TYA 5: Theatre for Young Audience. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Cumming, Peter, et al. Playwrights Canada Press (PLCN), 1998. 268 p. ISBN 0-88754-577-7 ($17.95 pbk.).

(CAN, I/M) Plays by writers drawn from across the country representing both French and English cultures are featured in this anthology of plays. One is based on a First Nations legend, another on a Quebec folktale, still another is an examination of the grieving process, and two celebrate the healing balm of nature. The editors have chosen works that they believe will encourage imagination. This diverse collection contains plays for all ages, but teachers should note that some of the plays are of a deep and serious tone. Care should be taken to choose plays that are appropriate for the experience, age and background of the students.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Drama

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

Vision & Voice: Extending the Literacy Spectrum (Print-Non-Fiction). Rief, Linda. Heinemann Educational Bks (GDS), 1999. 94 p. ISBN 0-325-00097-2 ($34.00 pbk.).

Vision and Voice is a practical guide for teachers. Two comprehensive research projects form the core of the book. The first is an environmental study of the rainforest that integrates reading, writing, art, science and math. The second, centred on the textile mills of the Industrial Revolution, connects reading, writing and music. The two projects are showcased on the CD included with the book. Extensive pictures and appendixes provide additional support for the projects. This resource provides a good model for a language-rich classroom. It shows how to extend the literary spectrum to include the visual and oral arts on a day-to-day basis.

Suggested Use: Grade 7; Grade 8; Music; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9; English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9

Who and When? Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Halliwell, Sarah, ed. Raintree Steck-Vaughn Company (SBC), 1998. 96 p. Order numbers follow. ($31.00 hdc.).

Recommended titles in this series include:

From the glories of the Renaissance to the Postimpressionism of the nineteenth century, from Giotto to Toulouse-Lautrec, the books in this series tell the stories and accomplishments of the principle European and American artists, writers and composers who created the art, literature and music that still influences us today. The information is presented in well-organized chronological order under each category. Biographical information includes major turning points and the impact of certain events on each person. s life. Illustrations or photographs of each person along with coloured reproductions of major works highlight almost every page. This series provides an insight into the historical background that shaped the ages, and reveals how these talented men and women have developed artistic movements over time. The books each include a table of contents, an introduction to the particular time period, a glossary and a comprehensive index.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music; Visual Art

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9

World Music: Cultural Traditions (Compact Disc). Haddad, Bob. Glencoe/McGraw Hill (LRDC), 2000. Order no. 9860 ($97.25).

This resource consists of recorded examples of regional music on CDs, a description of each track for the teacher. s reference and an introductory essay for each lesson. Questions to facilitate the listening experience are suggested, with additional information for teacher reference. Upbeat music selections ranging from countries that include the United States and Canada, Latin America, Europe, Russia, North Africa, Australia and several Asian countries make this an excellent choice for teachers who wish to expose their students to world music.

Suggested Use: Grade 6; Grade 7; Grade 8; Music; Teacher Reference

Other Use: Arts Education: Grade 9