Unlocking Imagination: Fifth Graders Explore Surrealism Across Subjects
Heather Jenkins
Fifth-grade students are diving into the imaginative world of surrealism, uncovering its influence across art, music, and literature. As part of their interdisciplinary unit, students are examining the concept of juxtaposition through iconic artworks such as The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí and René Magritte’s Time Transfixed.
In literature, this exploration extends to The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, where surrealist elements come to life through clever wordplay and imaginative storytelling. Students are also engaging in thoughtful discussions on how these surrealist elements enrich the novel’s themes, encouraging deeper connections and creative interpretations. This dynamic study inspires students to connect themes across subjects, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love for discovery.