This set of slides uses images of work as launching points for intermediate students' conversation, analysis and writing.  Though created with 4th graders in mind, the set and accompanying lessons are pertinent to any level 4th grade and up.

Minnesota 4th graders are expected to participate in discussion, articulate opinions verbally and in writing, and support their ideas with evidence.  In the set of lessons and student note-sheets accompanying this set, students will use these largely narrative, evocative works to consider how an artist uses elements of contrast, line, shape, etc., to communicate a mood, feeling or idea.  Students will also gain practice in the critical skill of making inferences. 

The focus on North America is designed to tie in, if teachers desire, with the 4th grade Social Studies focus on North American regions, resources, cultures and economies.