Unit+02

= WHAT IS ARCHITECTURE? =

"Architecture" can mean:
 * Architecture ** ( [|Latin] //  [|architectura]  //, from the Greek [|ἀρχιτέκτων] – arkhitekton, from [|ἀρχι-] "chief" and [|τέκτων] "builder, carpenter, mason") is both the process and product of [|planning] , [|designing] , and [|construction] , usually of buildings and other physical structures. Architectural works, in the material form of [|buildings] , are often perceived as cultural symbols and as [|works of art] . Historical civilizations are often identified with their surviving architectural achievements.
 * A general term to describe buildings and other physical structures.
 * The art and science of [|designing] and erecting buildings and other physical structures.
 * The style and method of design and construction of buildings and other physical structures.
 * The practice of the [|architect], where architecture means the offering or rendering of professional services in connection with the design and construction of buildings, or built environments. [|[1]]
 * The design activity of the architect, from the macro-level ( [|urban design], [|landscape architecture] ) to the micro-level (construction details and furniture).
 * The term "architecture" has been adopted to describe the activity of designing any kind of system, and is commonly used in describing [|information technology].

// From wikipedia //

To introduce the subject of architecture To begin to ask critical questions about the nature and purpose of architecture.
 * Objectives: **


 * Content to be explored: **

Definitions of architecture Examples of great architecture

Activity 1 - Great architecture
Find a photograph of what you believe is an example of great architecture. Pick an iconic building from the website below. In a written reflection explain why you think that particular building qualifies as great architecture. Do not just look at the form of the building ( its shape) but read about what its meaning and purpose is (or was) and what impact it has (or had) on society and the lives of people who interact with it. Upload images of your building and your reflection to your e-portfolio. Great buildings. Use this link to look at some great buildings.Continue to explore on your own by finding additional sources.

**Activity 2 - The meaning of architecture**

Explore the following links. Take notes on what you have read and discovered, then post everything to your e-portfolio.

In this link read the "**what is Architecture**" article. Then select: What is the **Practice of Architecture** and **What is An Architect** Take notes and post to your e-portfolio What is architecture? -1
 * Step 1 **

In this link select three architects to watch. Some of these interviews are not in English, so only select the ones speaking in English.**You do not need to watch the entire video** unless you are interested in doing so,and I certainly encourage you to do so. Generally in the first 2-3 minutes they will attempt to answer the question "What is architecture". Take notes on the three architects that you have chosen to view. What are their opinions on the question of "What is Architecture?" - do you agree or not? Make sure you identify the architect you are writing about. Post to you e-portfolio. USE VIDEO NOTES TO TAKE YOUR NOTES. Architects talking about architecture.
 * Step 2 **

Read the main article and then explore some of the links that you find there. Take notes and post to your e-porftolio Defining architecture
 * Step 3 **

Read this short essay on architecture from one of the worlds leading architects. Write a short response. Do you agree or disagree and why? Architect Steven Holl on the meaning of architecture
 * Activity 3 **

Project - Reflection: What does Architecture mean to you?
Fully address the questions below (more than one sentence and no one word answers!). Use the research you have done in the previous activities to help you. Please write in complete sentences and using correct grammar and spelling.
 * Step 1 **

1. Are architecture and building the same - why or why not? 2. Can architecture be art why or why not? 3. Animals build structures that protect them from the weather and predators. Can nests and burrows be considered architecture - why or why not? 4. In the quote by architect Louis Kahn ( see below) he uses the words place and space. Do these two words mean the same thing, why or why not? 5. Is an architect necessary to create architecture?

Conclude by writing a single sentence which sums up your thinking about architecture. Here are two famous examples:
 * Step 2 **


 * "Architecture is the thoughtful making of place and space." Louis Kahn ( an awesome American architect) **


 * " Architecture is frozen music". Johan Wolfgang Von Goethe ( an awesome German writer, politician and philosopher ) **


 * ASSESSMENT: **


 * When you have completed all of the items listed below, click the "turn in it" heading in the navigation side bar to submit your work The activities are scored on a scale of 1-10 (10 is highest) in total they are worth 40% of your final grade for this unit. Your Project is scored the same way. IT is worth 60% of your final grade for the unit. **


 * 1. activity - ** ** Great Architecture - written reflection **
 * 2. Activity - **** The Meaning of Architecture - notes on videos and written reflection **
 * 3. Project - What does Architecture mean to you? **

= When you have completed this unit and turned it in, continue to the next unit. =