The students need to know the names for the different parts of a building in order to make sense of the literature on ornamentation and symbolism. Knowing the correct names for the parts of a building would also be essential for them to understand and express themselves about their school Troup. I would supply them with a kitof-parts and instruct them as to the definition and placement of each name. Understanding the following terms is necessary to understanding the architecture and ornamentation of a building. Included are terms basic to classical architecture.
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arch
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windows
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beam
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doorway
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column
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intercolumnation
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pedestal
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vent
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roof-gable-dormer-dome
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forecourt
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capital
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courtyard
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cornice
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cortile
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keystone
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atrium
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moldings
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hallways-corridors
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pilaster
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niche
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wall
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pediment
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tympanum
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pergola
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aedicule
The students would be given copies of these and other architectural words as taken from the glossary of the book
What Style is It?
which is printed by The Preservation Press of the National Trust for Historical Preservation. After explaining the various terms, I would reinforce this knowledge by asking the students to identify various parts that are found in the room. The students would then be taken outside of the building and have the building explained to them. They would then be divided into groups of two and three. The class as a whole would make a book of the points of architectural interest in our school with each group being assigned a certain section of the building, eg, front doorways, ornament around the windows, etc. Each group would need to either make drawings ar take pictures of each item and then supply a written description or definition of it.
The information gathered at this time would form the basis of the material needed for understanding the building of the Troup Magnet Academy of Sciences.