"Progression"

• This watercolor and colored pencil piece incorporates a data line depicting the increase in use of renewable energy in the United States from 2006-2016.
• The scientific data woven into this landscape artwork shows that there has been progress made in the move toward renewable energy, but we still have a very long way to go. 

Positives

• This artwork provides an uplifting perspective, as it displays an increase in renewable energy use.
• It is visually dynamic and interesting to observe.

Additional Prerequisites

• Ensure that students are able to read a line graph.
• Teachers should consider how this artwork and single data line could be incorporated into their lessons, as it has many possibilities.
  

Differentiation

• Art students can use this resource to observe shading, highlights, fine details, and monochromatic coloring schemes.
• For classes that require more background information, consider using this short video about the basics of renewable energy sources or a StC lesson plan introducing renewable energy.
• This art was created in 2016, so have students research renewable energy use in the United States since that year and discuss more recent trends.
• Math classes could research more recent trends and create their own line graphs depicting renewable energy use to the present. Have students calculate how much more renewable energy is being used today.
  
• Put students in groups to have them discuss how art can be used to display data and to inform the public about important topics, such as climate change.
• Have students read more about Jill Pelto on her website and discuss in groups the purpose of her work and why she might have created this specific piece.
• Consider further exploration of the "Outreach" tab on Jill Pelto's website for opportunities to do a video classroom visit or to use her "Science Friday" link.
• For extension work, consider having students practice using graphs to evaluate the United States's renewable energy use compared with other countries.