Gates Art Curriculum

The Gates art curriculum is based on a learner-directed, choice-based model called Teaching for Artistic Behavior or TAB. A choice-based art program means students in art will be introduced to and allowed to choose from a variety of centers like drawing, collage, painting, sculpture, fiber, printmaking, and clay. The goal is to offer a program where students are encouraged to assume creative control of their art and art-making processes within an environment designed to support individual inquiry and the development of artistic behavior. In a choice-based classroom, it is the individual student, not the teacher who defines the project. Teachers instead function as facilitators, mentors, instructors, and motivators depending on the observed need, circumstance, and interest of the students.

The Gates Art Curriculum is also taught based on the concept of the Studio Habits of Mind where students develop their artistic hands, minds, heart, & world. Throughout the year, all students work in various 2D & 3D media while practicing the Studio Habits of Mind in their art-making process. Students are encouraged to think creatively, ask questions of themselves and others, and make meaning out of their artistic experiences in the art room.

In the primary grades, students are introduced to the concept of the Studio Habits of Mind through singing and interpreting a song I wrote called I'm an Artist. Students work on practicing using their artistic hands, brain, heart, & world throughout the year.

In the upper grades, students go into greater depth to understand the Studio Habits of Mind and implement them into their art-making process. By 5th grade, students set goals for themselves based on a particular habit and track their progress through student-teacher conferences, self reflection, and assessments.