Habits of a Renaissance Man: Learning How to Learn from Leonardo da Vinci

Ignite student curiosity and critical thinking with this exploration of Leonardo da Vinci and what it means to be a “Renaissance Man.” By examining Leonardo’s multifaceted genius, students will deconstruct traditional notions of a well-rounded individual and construct a more inclusive and relevant definition for today’s world. Documentary clips from Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon’s Leonardo da Vinci illustrate Leonardo’s spirit of inquiry, habits of mind, and achievements across disciplines.

Teachers can choose an extension activity in which students synthesize their understanding. In one option, students can produce a documentary or infographic highlighting modern-day Renaissance figures, using their developed criteria to evaluate these individuals’ achievements, or they can create a PSA inspiring peers to cultivate a diverse range of skills and interests. Alternatively, in another option, students are invited to reimagine their school environment, envisioning a space that fosters passion, interdisciplinary learning, and a love of knowledge, akin to Leonardo da Vinci’s own intellectual journey.

About the Author:

Passionate about fostering critical thinking and informed citizenship, Mary Kate Lonergan serves as the K-6 Social Studies Curriculum Specialist at Fayetteville-Manlius Central Schools. Her previous experience teaching 8th grade Social Studies, High School World History, and Participation in Government fuels her commitment to student learning. Mary Kate empowers students to critically engage with media and information by making media literacy the throughline of her Social Studies curriculum. Mary Kate has developed and implemented media and digital literacy professional development courses and has presented at conferences from the national to local levels. She is a KQED Media Literacy Innovator, serves as a Teacher Collaborator with Ithaca College’s Project Look Sharp, and is a faculty member of the Media Education Lab’s Summer Institute in Digital Literacy.