Unit 1: Harmony: Connecting With Nature

Students will uncover how we see and use the elements of art when making connections to art and nature. Students will experiment with a variety of art making methods to learn how artists create harmony in art. 

Unit Description: In the "Harmony: Connecting With Nature" unit, 6th-grade artists will embark on a captivating exploration of the intricate relationships between art and the natural world. This unit is thoughtfully designed to encourage students to observe, interpret, and translate the beauty of nature into their artwork. Through hands-on activities, in-depth projects, and reflective discussions, students will develop their artistic skills while deepening their connection to the environment and finding harmony in their creative expressions.

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

• Observe and analyze natural forms, textures, and patterns.

• Understand the concept of harmony in art and nature.

• Explore various artistic techniques to represent nature's beauty and harmony.

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

• Create artworks that reflect their interpretation of nature's harmony.

Key Concepts:

• Harmony: The pleasing arrangement of elements in an artwork or the peaceful coexistence of different parts in nature.

• Nature's Aesthetics: The visual and sensory aspects of the natural world.

Assessment: Assessment in this unit will focus on:

• Active participation in class discussions, nature observations, and activities.

• Completion of art projects that demonstrate an understanding of observing nature and representing harmony.

• Application of nature-inspired concepts and techniques in individual artworks.

• Creativity and effort displayed in the artistic process.

Week-by-Week Breakdown:

Week 1-2: Observing Nature's Patterns

• Introduction to the concept of patterns in nature.

• Discussion of how patterns create visual harmony in the environment.

• Nature observation sessions to collect sketches and photographs of natural patterns.

Week 3-4: Exploring Texture and Form

• Introduction to textures found in nature: rough, smooth, bumpy, etc.

• Discussion on how different textures contribute to the overall harmony of nature.

• Students experiment with various techniques to create textures and forms in their artwork.

Week 5-6: Creating Artistic Harmony

• Introduction to the idea of creating artworks inspired by nature's harmony.

• Students create individual artworks that capture the essence of harmony in nature.

• Exploration of color schemes, compositional elements, and techniques that reflect natural harmony.

Culminating Activity: Harmony in Nature Art Exhibition The unit culminates in a Harmony in Nature Art Exhibition where students proudly display their individual artworks. This exhibition provides an opportunity for students to share their understanding of nature's harmony and artistic creativity with peers and families.

Integration with Other Subjects:

• Science: The unit aligns with science lessons about ecosystems, patterns, and natural forms.

• Language Arts: Students can write reflections or poetry inspired by the harmonious qualities of nature.

• Environmental Studies: Discussions about harmony in nature contribute to understanding ecosystems and environmental balance.

Through the "Harmony: Connecting With Nature" unit, 6th-grade students will develop a deeper appreciation for the interconnected beauty of nature and its representation in art. This unit fosters creativity, observation skills, and a profound sense of harmony that bridges the gap between artistic expression and the natural world.