Collaborate to create a definition of music by comparing it to everyday sounds. Go on a treasure hunt for all kinds of sounds in the classroom. Explore the process by which we change noise into something creative and artistic, and appreciate that different types of music may appeal or not appeal to listeners.

Research what life was like for a philosopher who accomplished something that was unexpected in the time and place in which he or she lived. Understand that not all great thinkers lived in a time or place in which their ideas or actions were considered acceptable or important. Learn about how philosophers overcame these obstacles in order to accomplish great things. Make connections between the accomplishments of this philosopher and personal goals for intellectual achievement.

Great Thinker's Challenge:

Compare various notions of beauty by comparing different historical eras. Think critically about the difference between true beauty and passing fads, as well as the role originality plays in definitions of beauty. Begin to form a definition of the characteristics that make something beautiful.

Great Thinker's Challenge:

Make personal connections to beauty by contrasting two views of what “looks good.” Think critically about the role of personal taste and popularity in theories of art and beauty. Begin to form a definition of the characteristics that make something beautiful.

Go out into the local community to find beautiful things in your local environment. Look for beautiful things that exist in nature and beautiful things that are human-made. Consider what makes them beautiful and write an ode to an object.