Looking Around: Seeing Our World

Unit Description

First grade art students will learn how to observe the world around them and the role it plays in the creation of art. Students will also learn about the element of art, line through exploration. Students will know and understand concepts relating to outlining, edges of a shape and be able to identify different line types and be able to identify them in the environment around them. Students will be able to identify and use different geometric and organic shapes to communicate in their artwork. 

Unit Description: In the "Looking Around: Seeing Our World" unit, 1st-grade artists will embark on an exciting visual journey to explore the world around them through the lens of art. This unit is thoughtfully designed to encourage students to observe and interpret their surroundings with a creative perspective. Through hands-on activities, engaging projects, and interactive discussions, students will develop their artistic skills while fostering a deeper connection to the beauty and diversity of the world they inhabit.

Unit Objectives: By the end of this unit, students will be able to:

• Develop observation skills by closely looking at various subjects.

• Understand and use the elements of art, such as line, shape, and color, to represent their observations.

• Explore different art techniques and materials to create meaningful artwork.

• Participate in hands-on activities that encourage creative expression through art.

• Create artworks that reflect their unique perspectives on the world around them.

Key Concepts:

• Observation: Closely looking at subjects to gain a deeper understanding.

• Elements of Art: Fundamentals of art, including line, shape, color, and texture.

Assessment: Assessment in this unit will focus on:

• Active participation in class discussions and activities.

• Completion of art projects that demonstrate an understanding of observation and the elements of art.

• Application of observational skills and artistic techniques in individual artworks.

• Creativity and effort displayed in the artistic process.

Week-by-Week Breakdown:

Week 1-2: Developing Observation Skills

• Introduction to the importance of observing the world around us.

• Discussion of how artists use observation to create meaningful art.

• Hands-on activities where students practice observing everyday objects and scenes.

Week 3-4: Exploring Line, Shape, and Color

• Introduction to the elements of art: line, shape, and color.

• Exploration of how these elements can be used to represent observations.

• Students create collaborative projects that incorporate lines, shapes, and colors.

Week 5-6: Expressing Through Art

• Introduction to various art techniques and materials, such as drawing, painting, and collage.

• Discussion on how students can use these techniques to express their observations.

• Students create individual artworks inspired by their observations of nature, people, or objects.

Culminating Activity: Our World in Art Exhibition The unit culminates in an Art Exhibition where students proudly display their individual artworks. This exhibition provides an opportunity for students to share their unique perspectives on the world with peers and families.

Integration with Other Subjects:

• Science: The unit aligns with science lessons about observation and the natural world.

• Language Arts: Students can write short descriptions or stories inspired by their observations and artworks.

• Social Studies: The theme of observing and understanding the world connects with social studies objectives.

Through the "Looking Around: Seeing Our World" unit, 1st-grade students will cultivate their ability to observe and interpret their surroundings through art. This unit fosters creativity, observation skills, and an appreciation for the beauty that lies within their everyday environment.