Mary Cassatt's paintings and graphics depict the world of 19th-century women, mothers, and children. Her exploration of intimate domestic life is informed by an unsurpassed ability to capture the natural, sometimes awkward poses of her figures and her refusal to "prettify" her subjects. This teaching guide gives an overview of Cassatt's life, art training, and travel in Europe. The guide provides information on the Impressionists and the historical and artistic context of a U.S. woman as a professional artist in the 19th century. It discusses Cassatt's approach to painting and describes one of her most famous paintings, "Little Girl in a Blue Armchair." The guide features illustrations of 15 of Mary Cassatt's paintings and graphics and suggests activities for elementary school, middle school, and high school. (BT)