Welcome to Roosevelt School Fine Arts

In Fine Arts our course of study will focus upon creative thinking, problem-solving, art history, exploring materials, the elements of art and the principles of design all in alignment with the creation of expressive well thought out and developed works of art. Projects will focus on drawing skills, painting, hand building and group work. Students will be exposed to a variety of both two and three-dimensional materials and mediums, and will also have the opportunity to write about and discuss their works and the works of others.

Through the Study of Art students are encouraged to value and respond to their own perceptions, observations, emotions and creativity, not only to build skills but to develop and become more comfortable and confident with their own aesthetic awareness and self-expression.

Why do we have Art in School?

Art is the universal language. Art is the language that brings together cultural, racial, educational and economic diversity to enhance awareness and appreciation for the creativity and accomplishments of Humankind.

Art is an outlet for self-expression. Art can be personal or public. Art can be reactionary or provocative. Art documents and defines who we are as cultures, societies and individuals.

By enhancing the creative, critical and emotional process; exposure to Fine Arts improves cognitive development and academic achievement. Students develop higher level thinking skills including - comprehension, application, analysis, problem solving, evaluating and creating. Art provides the means for every student to self-reflect, develop skills, communicate and to expand learning on multiple levels.

In order to fully partic ipate in an educated society an exposure and education in the Arts is essential.

Class Expectations, Procedures and Principals

1. Think Creatively

2. Follow Directions with assignments and with "Studio Practices"

3. Be Respectful and Inclusive with others

NJ State Standards and Assessments

Student expectations and assessments are based on the new New Jersey Student Learning Standards and in class Studio Practices. The areas of focus are – Creating, Performing, Responding and Connecting.

NJSLS - https://njartsstandards.org/

Classroom Standards and Assessments. 

Contribute to a Positive Environment that promotes Original Thought and Creativity - Exceed Expectations

Class participation will be referred to as "Studio Practices" = 50% of grade

1. Arrive on time quietly, you are entering a classroom

2. Respect each other / Respect each other's space / Respect the room / Respect the materials

3. Follow Directions / Be Creative / Be Original / Present with Pride (Name and period on all work)

4. Be Responsible for your space / Clean up table and floor / Projects properly put away / Take projects home

5. Behave Appropriately, not fooling around / Quiet Voices / Courteous / Be helpful

Art Projects = 50% of grade

1. Develop ideas that are unique. "The imitator dooms himself to hopeless mediocrity." Emerson

2. Give your best effort. "If everyone is thinking alike, then someone isn't thinking." Patton 

3. Take artistic risks, explore, don't be afraid to fail

4. Be prepared to explain your project and thought process

5. Be proud of your work

Student projects will be assessed on an ongoing basis, at Midterm and at the Conclusion of the Quarter. Any student not satisfied with a project grade will have an opportunity to re-work projects to improve grades, just ask.

Below are some of the self-reflective and analytical questions students will experience.

Describe – What does your project look like? Describe your project to someone who cannot see it. What is the best quality of your project and why? If you could change or improve any part of your project what would it be?

Analyze – How was your artwork made? Using what materials? Using what techniques and emphasizing what Art Elements or design principals?

Interpret – Does your project reflect a particular Mood, Meaning, Emotion or Feeling? Does your project have a story, statement, purpose or point of view? Explain.

Judge – Identify at least one thing you discovered or learned while working on this project? What do you think of your finished art piece? Were you successful? Based on the Project Review Rubric give yourself a number grade for the project. Support your assessment with a short statement.

Robert Greenwood     EMAIL      rgreenwood@westfieldnjk12.org