Art

GREETINGS,

I am Lauren Kruse, the 8th grade art teacher at Thompson Middle School. I instruct both here at TMS, as well as teach some classes at Ferson Creek Elementary, Davis Primary, and Wildrose Elementary schools.

CURRICULUM:

In our studio, we incorporate a T.A.B. (Teaching for Artistic Behavior) instructional method. This is a student-led, choice-based pedagogy that I feel best meets the needs of 21^st century learners. It challenges the creative mind, pushing each student forward from their own unique starting point.

for more info, check out the following links:

http://www.teachingforartisticbehavior.org,

http://knowledgeloom.org/tab

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TAB-ChoiceArtEd/

OVERVIEW:

Our course of study will focus on using the Elements of Art, the Principles of Design and the Studio Habits of Mind in order to create expressive, well-organized works of art. Students will develop their artistry while being exposed to a variety of materials, mediums, and techniques. Students will also have opportunities to write about and discuss their own works, and the works of others from around the world! We will have general themes which will guide students in creating their own original works of art. These themes include: Identity, Masters Study, and Make a Statement. Once the basic framework is in place, students will develop their own independent focus and create at least 2 works of their choice that incorporate their unique creative voice as well as the use of concepts learned in class and beyond.

GRADING:

Students will be evaluated on their ability to put into practice the Studio Habits of Mind: Develop Craft, Engage and Persist, Envision, Express, Observe, Reflect, Stretch & Explore and Understanding the Arts Community. Each week students can earn 100 pts. (50 pts. for participation in class as an ARTIST which includes: putting into practice the Studio Habits of Mind and Classroom Etiquette & 50 pts. for the Weekly Art Journal due every Friday.) They will also have a rubric for each project and should complete at least 5 works by the end of the quarter. Those projects are graded using a rubric and generally will be worth 20 points.

Anything less than 5 pieces will bring their grade down… A+ to a B+, A- to a B-, A to a B, etc.

OTHER:

Your student’s work will be uploaded and stored on an online gallery called Artsonia. This is a safe, free, and private gallery that stores their work to be viewed by you and any friends or family whom you authorize. There are more fun perks to this gallery, so contact me for more information or to receive your student’s personalized access code! (Permission slips are sent home but don’t always make it).

I am thrilled to have your student in my classroom and cannot wait to meet them!

Feel free to contact me for art club, art display, or any other info at: lauren.kruse@d303.org or by phone at 331-228-5300 (ext 5300)

Thanks for reading!

Sincerely,

Lauren Kruse