Recently I had the pleasure of teaching in a summer school classroom of 3rd grade students with varying capabilities and interests, such as ADHD (Attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder) and ODD (Oppositional defiant disorder). The ELA (English Language Arts) lesson that was most effective for students across the spectrum involved a hands on art making activity.
The lesson began by reading the book, An Eye for Color: The Story of Josef Albers by Natasha Wing. Students were then invited to create their own Josef Albers inspired compositions. With a pleothera of colors and squares students came up with unique and powerful artworks. Students enjoyed having the time to be creative and were excited to take their work home to show their families!