Year At A Glance

Below is a loose Curriculum Map of projects that we may do during the year. I also plan the projects based on the skill set of the class and the individual, so the projects vary a little at times.  We will cover the Elements of Art and Principles of Design.  Project themes are generally based on particular events associated with the month and may also be based on current events. Projects may also be part of a collaboration with other teachers here at PAPA.

We also participate in various contests and exhibits throughout the year.

Now I will run through the Visual Arts Standards. I feel that we don't just focus on one or two standards at a time.  We focus on them simultaneously. 

Our main focus is Creating: Anchor Standards 1-3. Anchor 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.  

Then we have Presenting: Anchors 4-6.  What does Presenting look like in the art room?  Once the creative process begins, artwork has the potential to bring ideas from an internal thought to an external, visual form. Then the visual artwork is presented to the art teacher, peers, family, friends, or whoever the audience may be. Presentations can occur at any stage in the creation process. I use presentations as learning experiences that are ongoing and reflective.  Presenting may naturally be connected to the physical display of finished artwork, as well participating in contests and exhibits. Our biggest form of Presenting is displaying our art on the online art gallery, Artsonia.

Next, we have Responding: Anchors 7-9.  One common strategy that I incorporate is critiquing.  Critiques come in a variety of forms and can be done at different stages of the creative process. It is a great way for students to self-assess their own artwork and introduce them to the artwork of others. Critiques can be formal or informal.  

Lastly, we have Connecting: Anchors 10-11.  For example, I use prompts to bring awareness to my students’ personal experiences. Teaching for creativity through the artistic process can help students discover their own voices and express what is important to them. Brainstorming, timed thumbnail sketches, or collaborative activities can help students develop connections between personal ideas and visual artmaking.