Explore the content and context of artworks in the Norton Simon collection with these curriculum packets designed for middle- to high-school teachers.
Grades: 5–12
Distance Learning
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Norton Simon Museum is temporarily closed and unable to offer in-person tours. However, we encourage you to explore and utilize our resources for teachers, which are designed to help support art engagement—whether in the classroom or virtually.
Explore the Norton Simon collections with your students through curriculum packets investigating a wide range of artworks. Watch our “Spotlight on Art” series of short videos designed for teachers and students. Read tips for looking at art that provide multiple entry points for students to make connections and find personal meaning. And experiment with materials and processes through hands-on art-making activities inspired by objects in the collection.
We are continually adding to these pages, so please stay check back with us, or stay connected:
- Email us at educate@nortonsimon.org to ask questions or let us know how we can assist you and your students
- Join our teacher email list to receive updates on our distance learning activities
- Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for general information on the Museum and its collection
Spotlight on Art: Videos for Schools
Take a closer look at artworks from the collection in this series of short videos led by Museum educators.
Grades: 5–12
Cultivating Empathy Through Art
Discover how art can be used to encourage and develop empathy with these resources designed for elementary, middle- and high-school students.
Grades: K–12
Curate the Collection
Learn what it means to be a curator, and curate your own exhibition with works from the collection.
Grades: 5–12
Art-Making Activities
Find a variety of art projects inspired by the Norton Simon collection that are designed to inspire creativity in students of all ages.
Grades: K–12
DIY Stories in the Afternoon
Enjoy Stories in the Afternoon at home with pairings of some of our favorite children’s books with works from our collection.
Grades: K–2
AP Art History Exam Connections
Find a list of artists in the Norton Simon’s collection as well as related artworks connected to the AP Art History course and exam.
Grades: 10–12
Tips for Looking at Art with Students
Learn about dynamic strategies to engage students in grades K–4 and 5–12 with art.
Grades: K–12
Professional Development for Teachers
Develop the skills to bring art into the classroom with Afternoon for Teachers. This annual event for teachers will return in virtual form July 2021. Registration will be available in May.
Virtual Programs for Children & Youth
Our art-making classes for children and young adults have returned virtually over WebEx. These programs are limited to a small number of students, so be sure to register early.