Art Fundamentals is a visual arts course that focuses on learning the language of art and art history, while exploring a wide variety of materials, techniques and processes. As in any language, Art has its own Foundation. This class will teach you the basics of how to learn, create, appreciate and assess the world of visual imagery in which we live .
Cell phones and ipods are prohibited during class.
How does learning about the Visual Arts change the way in which you view the world?
Content Standards
These are statements that describe what students should know or be able to do in
Art Fundamentals by the end of the year:
Art History
Become familiar with a variety of historical and cultural concepts, artistic approaches and styles.
Experience a variety of other work to inform artistic decisions.
Respond to and analyze techniques and styles from artists of different time periods and cultures.
Technical Skills
Explain and demonstrate quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Demonstrate knowledge of several art media and techniques.
Demonstrate and discuss an understanding of design.
Creative Problem-Solving Skills
Describe and demonstrate knowledge of visual composition.
Identify and use the elements of design.
Become familiar with the principles of design.
Demonstrate understanding of basic color theory.
Demonstrate and describe how to creatively solve visual problems.
Reasoning/Thinking Skills
Discuss and explain your work, using correct vocabulary in oral and written critiques.
Record and document evidence of learning and progress throughout the semester.
Process Standards (Work Habits)
The following are skills students will develop to enhance the process of learning.
Students will:
1. Use time wisely and productively.
2. Attend class on a regular basis.
3. Come to class on time, prepared, with necessary materials.
4. Keep a sketchbook, documenting progress/improvement throughout the semester.
5. Show responsible care of materials and contribute to clean up in the classroom.
6. Provide constructive criticism when discussing artwork.
7. Participate in small group discussions and work effectively with others.
8. Maintain a positive attitude and put forth best possible effort.
Materials
Pencils - Bring to class on a daily basis
Sketchbook(9x12) – provided by teacher
Everything we do in class contributes in some way to your overall grade.
All assignments/projects are based on meeting the standards or essential learning for the course and are graded on a 4 point scale. 4 is at the top , 1 is at the bottom. Specific criteria and rubrics are given to students for all major assignments, so they are clear how to be successful. When entered into the on-line grade book, the 4 point system is “translated” into the following 100 point scale:
Exceptional, Extraordinary Work (when merited) 4++=100
Exceeds the Standard 4=97
3.5=94
Meets the Standard 3=90
2.5=87
Approaching the Standard 2=83
1.5=79
Does Not Meet the Standard 1=76
Assignments passed in one week after the due date will earn 70% of the assignment's grades .
Assignments passed in more than two weeks after the due date will earn 50% of the assignment's grades.
Communication with the teacher is essential.
This translation scale is borrowed and adapted from Robert Marzano.
Make-up Policy
If you are sick and not in school the day an assignment is due, it is due the first day you return to school. Remember it is your responsibility to make arrangements with me, concerning what you missed when you were not in school. Under extraordinary circumstances, please contact me asap, so that together, we can make a plan to get caught up and turn in or modify missing work.