Units of Study are organized by media or technique. Artists can choose any unit they prefer, however, 1.0 must be completed before 2.0 and so on. To begin their journey, artists must start with either Drawing 1.0, Ceramics 1.0, or Elements & Principles 1.0.

Artists must document work daily in Daily Journal, and I will give individual feedback using comments on those same slides. This can act as a 2-way conversation between the artist and myself. I will meet with small groups during each class period for any needed guidance and support.

Each month has approximately 10 class periods. If artists spend 5 class periods on instructional material, and 5 class periods on independent studio time, they should complete a new unit each month. Because they are working independently, some artists work faster or slower than others, and understanding of instructional materials will vary, it may be possible for an artist to complete the instructional work in 3 class periods. This is completely fine, and would allow for approximately 7 class periods of independent studio time. 

While units are organized by media or technique, the goal of each unit is to answer an overarching question. For example, Drawing 1.0 focuses on portraits. Artists learn traditional technical skills while answering the question: Why do artists follow or break from tradition? With this in mind, each instructional lesson revolves around this question, and the product created during studio time should address this over-arching question.

Grades will allow for flexibility within units, and will be structured as follows: 

• Weekly PUMA PRIDE Grades: Meets Classroom Expectations & Puts Forth EFFORT to Produce Quality Work

• Week 2: Instructional Mastery Checks Due, graded using Standards 1-3

• Week 4: Open Studio Project Due, graded using Standards 1-3

See Grading tab for rubrics used.

Mastery Checks must be completed at a Proficient level before moving forward. Students can retake these Mastery Checks as many times as needed, however, they will need to complete a short review before doing so. The goal is for everyone to move into their studio time with a proficient understanding of material. 

While the instructional portion and Mastery Checks are relatively structured, artists are highly encouraged to express their unique personalities, opinions, thoughts, styles, and emotions in their studio time. I will offer a variety of options that answer each unit's overarching question, and students will be able to submit their own plans for approval.

These units were piloted in the Spring Semester of 2024, and I expect them to be exciting, relevant, interesting, and worthwhile for students. I also understand that there can always be improvements, so I welcome feedback from artists! Enjoy browsing Units of Study that are currently available. More units will be added throughout the summer and fall of 2024. Stay tuned!