EDITOR’S NOTES
Whew! We all made it. Summer is in full swing and I hope you are taking time to savor every
little moment of it. Whether you are planning for the upcoming school year, taking on an
additional job for some more income, or just relaxing with family and friends, this is the time of
year for new perspectives.
That’s why this issue is so meaningful to our whole team. In our cover story on page 21,
author and artist Elle Luna shares why it’s important for all of us to take a break so that we
can listen to ourselves and rediscover who we are and what we really want. Elle has a way of
honing in on the exact thing you need to hear and delivering it in in a way that makes total
sense. I can’t wait for you to read that interview.
If you’re looking for some fresh new lesson ideas, I highly recommend checking out the Cyborg
Masks unit that is shared on page 25. Also, be sure to take a look at how Nic Hahn highlights
the process of art making through her #ProcessPigs lessons (page 11). The products she
shares are amazing, which just goes to show you that the product IS determined by the
process. Looking to incorporate some music into your classroom this year? Check out the
Music, Gnomes and a Challenge idea found on page 6.
We also have some amazing teacher essays this issue from Australian educator Chelsea
Cutting (page 16) and music educator Josette Abruzzini (page 41). How they both approach
STEAM is so unique and different. Need some assessment ideas? Dr. Typhani Harris
showcases the power of performance tasks on page 45.
And just in case you thought this issue was all work and no play, we’ve included two special
sections to prove you wrong. We’re highlighting 40 fantastic books for your summer reading
list on page 31. And we’ve included a Summer Bucket List on page 48 to keep you having fun
all summer long. Let’s dive on in!
Happy Summer,
Susan M. Riley, Editor
STEAMed Magazine
3
July 2016 Edition