Studio Art

Course Description

In HS Studio Art, students progress through 4 different units (two per Semester), practicing and demonstrating understanding through 8 materials-based Assignments total. While exploring conceptual approaches to creative thinking, students develop material disciplines and work through the lens of the Elements and Principles of Art and Design.

Semester 1: Students will have an understanding of: the Design Process, Graphic Design, Digital and Physical Collage, Gesture Drawing, Portraiture, Ceramic, Building and Model-Making, and Color Theory.

*Students are evaluated throughout this course by means of our unit assignment rubrics. Learning for understanding is also demonstrated throughout the studio art-making process, both in class and through our weekly Checkpoints.

Units of Study & Assessment Information

Unit 1:

"Layers of Me"

2D Mixed Media and Ceramics

Unit Description:

Students begin their journey into personal visual storytelling by exploring who they are — through the creation of a mind map that becomes part of their personalized art folder. This brainstorming tool launches the design process as students explore the building blocks of visual communication: symbolism, color theory, and design principles.

CDS Artists then learn how to create their self-portrait through sighting and proportions and the grid method, layering it with meaningful color, texture, and imagery using materials like physical and digital collage, paint, gel printing, colored pencils, markers, charcoal or oil pastels. This portrait becomes a symbolic representation of the student — not just how they look, but who they are.

In the second phase of Unit 1, students shift into three dimensions. Using hand-building clay techniques (such as pinch, slab, or carving), students develop a sculptural piece that visually connects to their 2D portrait. While the clay work may be a mask, vessel, or abstract form, it must reflect elements of the student’s identity through pattern, texture, or conceptual link.

The unit culminates with a student-led Google Slides presentation featuring their mind map, in-progress documentation, and a final artist reflection.

Select works from this unit will be featured in CDS’ annual HS Winter Art Show.

ID Mood Board Rubric

Industrial Design Presentation Rubric

Mythological Power Portraits Rubric

Standards & Transfer Skills

8 Studio Habits of Mind

In addition to the Visual Arts Learning Standards, students are guided in their practice via Harvard's Project Zero Studio Thinking Project, and the eight Studio Habits of Mind.

Broad Learning Categories

Creating (25%)

Anchor Standard 1: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
Anchor Standard 2: Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.
Anchor Standard 3: Refine and complete artistic work.

Presenting (25%)

Anchor Standard 4: Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation.
Anchor Standard 5: Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.
Anchor Standard 6: Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.

Responding (25%)

Anchor Standard 7: Perceive and analyze artistic work
Anchor Standard 8: Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.
Anchor Standard 9: Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

Connecting (25%)

Anchor Standard 10: Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.
Anchor Standard 11: Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding.

**Parents can find more information of the standards assessed in each Broad Learning Category on PowerSchool.

Week by Week Breakdown

Studio Habit Expectations

Come to class on time and ready to work
Keep your space neat
Respect materials and the classroom space
Respect one another and the teacher
Using class time efficiently
Persevere through issues, either alone or with help from your teacher
Participate in discussions about your work regularly
Submit work that you are proud of and you feel represents 100% of your best effort

Students can expect the following from the teacher concerning the following:

GOOGLE CLASSROOM - All assignments will be posted in Google Classroom. If you are having trouble locating it, contact the teacher.
RUBRICS AND POLICIES - Once posted here they will not change. However, if a chance is necessary the teacher will inform students well in advance and will clearly mark the changes. Please see the Fine Arts Reassessment Policy here.

Quick Link High School Policies

Academic Honesty Policy - English Language Policy - Technology Policies - Missing/Late Evidence - AP Policies