A snapshot of what's happening in Rm 002...
Our sixth graders at Qualter's are so fortunate to have art on a daily basis for three terms out of the school year. The art curriculum correlates with the Massachusetts Art Frameworks as well at the National Standards. Students learn about our visual culture as we learn new techniques, principles and elements of design, as well as real world and historical connections. Since students have art on a daily basis they have opportunities to work on in depth long term projects in various media and styles.
Typically art lessons begin with demonstration and discussion. During our discussions we compare and contrast different works, styles, and techniques. After the lesson is introduced the planning stages occur such as sketching. During this time students problem solve as the work out their ideas visually often while practicing a new technique. Out of the box ideas are encouraged as students are reminded to make original work that is meaningful to them, not replicate exemplars. Students are required to create more than one sketch or plan before starting their final piece. This process gives opportunities for ideas to develop and improve. Sometimes during the creative process unexpected problems arise, as with any practice mistakes happen but we learn to work though those mishaps. These bumps in the road, even though they can certainly test our patience, are tremendous learning opportunities. Some media is more forgiving than others, sometimes a little erasing can do the trick. But other times such as when working with ink or watercolor a more innovative solution is needed. As we close in on the completion stages of our lessons we critique, edit, and reflect.
Typically art lessons begin with demonstration and discussion. During our discussions we compare and contrast different works, styles, and techniques. After the lesson is introduced the planning stages occur such as sketching. During this time students problem solve as the work out their ideas visually often while practicing a new technique. Out of the box ideas are encouraged as students are reminded to make original work that is meaningful to them, not replicate exemplars. Students are required to create more than one sketch or plan before starting their final piece. This process gives opportunities for ideas to develop and improve. Sometimes during the creative process unexpected problems arise, as with any practice mistakes happen but we learn to work though those mishaps. These bumps in the road, even though they can certainly test our patience, are tremendous learning opportunities. Some media is more forgiving than others, sometimes a little erasing can do the trick. But other times such as when working with ink or watercolor a more innovative solution is needed. As we close in on the completion stages of our lessons we critique, edit, and reflect.
