Resources for parents and teachers

Art Anywhere, Anytime – AGO From Home
In this unprecedented time, Art at the AGO is always here for you to inspire, imagine and create!

On this page you will find resources and activities to help teachers build visual literacy while developing skills in observation, interpretation, critical thinking and creativity…remotely!

ACTIVITIES

These activities are recommended for all ages. Colour, photograph, sketch and make your own art, and share it with #AGOmakes or #AGOfromHome.

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make paper-cut shadow puppets using recycled materials found at home.

Shadow Puppets

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make paper-cut shadow puppets using recycled materials found at home.
(19 minute video)

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Paola Poletto stream-of-consciousness writing

Stream-of-Consciousness Writing

Inspired by Paul Klee's Hard and Soft drawing, Paola Poetto, Director of Engagement & Learning takes a moment to relax her mind with a simple writing exercise using pencil on paper. 
(2 minute video)

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Tiana talks about soft sculpture

Soft Sculpture

Watch Tiana Roebuck, AGO Associate Curator, Learning & Studio Programs, make her own soft sculpture inspired by Claes Oldenburg's Floor Burger.
(13 minute video)

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Creating a grid

Tonal Painting

Watch AGO Manager of Strategic Projects Deborah Nolan make her own tonal painting inside a grid, using the colours blue and red inspired by Agnes Martin's The Rose.
(2 minute video)

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Educational Tours

The Art Gallery of Ontario offers educational tours that are led by highly trained teaching staff with expertise in museum learning. AGO educational tours support 21st century competencies that include:

  1. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Strategies
    We ignite critical thinking with discovery-based learning and student discussions that engage multiple perspectives. By encouraging students to analyze visual and verbal information and to make personal meaning, field trips support the growth of cultural and visual literacy.
  2. Innovative and Creative Process
    Artmaking workshops promote imaginative thinking and perseverance. Shifting the mindset to consider art as process reinforces continual experimentation, innovation and resilience.
  3. Learning to Learn
    Learning happens when one pauses to examine and question assumptions. By reflecting on issues and ideas, participants make real-world connections from one situation to another. Repeated practice of this disciplined inquiry prepares students to think critically about new events and ideas in the future.
  4. Collaborative Respect
    Working collaboratively to unpack a work of art or to create an art project helps students develop an appreciation for multiple perspectives, be comfortable with ambiguity and tolerate complexity. This equal respect for process and product supports future strong collaborators.
  5. Communication Skills
    Visual literacy is a key skill to understanding the world around us. Art supports new modes of communication and offers agency to students less proficient in verbal and writing skills. Through art, students collaboratively explore and communicate personal identity, while also promoting contemplation and well-being.
  6. Global Citizenship
    Students are encouraged to make interdisciplinary and cross-curricular connections that provide new perspectives and points of access. When asked to consider views and experiences from around the globe, they are building active connections among local and global issues and ideas.
     

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR EDUCATORS

Sorry, no events found. Check back soon.

teacher development gird

TEACHERS’ ACCESS PROGRAM FAQs

I am a member of TAP, how do I book my class for a self-guided school visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario?

To help provide the best experience and ensure that all school groups have access to lunch table seating and a quick entry, beginning in September 2023, all teachers will need to book online in advance and fees will apply.

Visit AGO.ca/school-visits for the booking form and more details. 

How do I receive my complimentary General Admission ticket through the Teachers’ Access Program?

To receive your free General Admission ticket to the AGO after you have registered in AGO TAP, log in to AGO Tickets and enter promo code sent to you in your welcome email, or in the AGO TAP Enewsletter. Please allow 72 hours for activation of new AGO TAP registrations. An AGO staff member may ask you to present your valid OCT card or proof of a full time teaching status with your ticket when entering the gallery.

Does this mean I can visit the gallery with my class anytime?

School groups are required to book their visits ahead of time for both self-guided and guided tours and studios. To book your visit, click here

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