Envision, Express & Explore

I.C. Art Classes (K-8th) Overview

Our visual art classes focus on a student centered approach with the goal of teaching students to think and behave like artists. It is based on the pedagogical "Teaching for Artistic Behavior" or TAB philosophy where the student is the artist and the classroom is their studio. In our choice-based art studio, students are introduced to available materials and art supplies and are offered real choices of media, processes and content under guided instruction. Offering real choices enables student artists to pursue more individualized interests and have a more meaningful, authentic artmaking experience. The classroom is set up into studio centers which allow students to work more independently and keep supplies readily accessible .  Students are given time to explore & experiment with supplies and techniques during the artistic process. This allows students the opportunity to "advance their individual artistic processes through exploration and discovery, inquiry and ideation, skill development and artmaking, reflection and revision, self-evaluation and presentation" (TAB Guiding Principles). The artistic process is an integral part of the art curriculum.  When students are allowed to be creative and follow their own ideas and passions, they will be more engaged and invested in the learning process and will find greater meaning and relevance in their studio work.  

Art learning objectives and assessments are based on the Create, Present, Respond, & Connect Strands of the Missouri and National Arts Standards for each grade level (Missouri Learning Standards - Visual Arts  and National Art Standards). The Studio Habits of Mind (SHOM) will be practiced in the art studio and incorporated into the art curriculum.

The arts build strong cognitive and intellectual habits. Please check out the SHOM resources below about the eight skills the arts teach to see what can be learned in and through the arts.