How to Integrate Art Across Math, Science, and History
Educators across California are under pressure to meet academic standards, support student engagement, and make every instructional minute count. That’s where art integration curriculum shines — especially when it’s thoughtfully embedded into core subjects like math, science, and history.
Why integrate art?
Art is more than creativity. It enhances critical thinking, improves knowledge retention, and supports cross-curricular learning. When integrated with subjects like math or social studies, it helps students visualize concepts and connect emotionally with the material.
Here are examples of how schools use K-8 art curriculum to support core academics:
🧮 Art + Math
Geometry comes to life through pattern design and symmetry exercises.
Students apply measurement, fractions, and ratios while creating scaled drawings.
These classroom art projects deepen spatial reasoning and reinforce number sense.
🔬 Art + Science
Students draw plant life cycles, animal adaptations, or weather systems.
Clay or collage is used to model ecosystems or the solar system.
These approaches support STEAM art education and creative thinking through art.
📜 Art + History
Students explore ancient civilizations through visual symbols and storytelling.
Art history for elementary students introduces cultural context and historical empathy.
Hands-on projects reinforce timelines and events in a memorable way.
At Art in Action, our visual arts lesson plans are designed to support art curriculum standards and make it easy for educators—regardless of background—to incorporate art into core subjects. Every lesson includes clear instructions, materials lists, and ideas for extension activities.
Whether you’re in the Bay Area, Silicon Valley, or any part of Northern California, art integration isn’t just possible—it’s practical and powerful. And with the right curriculum partner, it’s easier than ever to get started.
