Grading for Learning

Our grading rubric was created with middle schoolers in mind. We encourage progress over perfection.

The standards, in a nutshell, reflect the following:

1. Can I imagine making an artwork and work through challenges?

2. Can I use art-making methods and materials traditionally and/or independently?

3. Can I use academic vocabulary to talk about art-making?

Generally speaking, "Proficient" in any standard requires reflection, willingness to make improvements, and persevere when challanged.

Our middle school studio operates under these beliefs:

1. The student is the artist. 

2. The classroom is the artist's studio.

3. What do artists do?

You will notice that not all student artwork is the same, or even complete. We allow students to take charge of their work, including determining when and how it will be displayed.

Students may focus on one art-making material more so than another. This is completely acceptable considering the classroom is their studio. 

We explore thoroughly what artists do, including how artists work in a shared space with shared materials. In addition, we practice generating ideas, developing skills, understanding historical and contemporary artists, exploring themes in art-making, persisting through challenges, and reflecting on our work.