Painting exploration activity with first grade students.
"IT TAKES TALENT TO MAKE ART."
Myth Debunked
Some students dread the art classroom, worrying that they "can't draw." Others are passionate about art or have skills on par with professional artists.
My goal is to help all students develop their understanding of artistic media, while practicing habits of mind for making and experiencing art.
"HOW WILL I MAKE ART TODAY?"
the artful use of materials
Every student will build a repertoire of artistic skills by working on projects in different materials. Collage, painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture, graphic design...
Students will learn many ways to give shape to an idea. Plus, their personal experience with materials will help them relate to the larger art world.
Q: How will all your students, regardless of prior experience, improve their artistic abilities?
A: Students will begin working with materials in low-stakes activities that encourage them to lose inhibition and explore. They will continue to gain artistic skill during multi-session projects in each material. For every project, a thematic question will prompt students to visually represent an idea or experience. By scaffolding and using differentiated instruction, I guide students to learn more about techniques and materials, while encouraging them to problem-solve.
Q: How do you grade artwork?
A: I assess students based on learning goals that I outline in a rubric for each project. These goals often include standards for artful habits of mind, such as "stretching and exploring" or "finding humor." I try to help my students find a sense of responsibility and pride in their own learning. Students self-assess their experience throughout each project. Before they begin working with a new material or theme, I ask students about their prior experience, interest, or ideas.
For examples, please view a selection of my assessment tools.
Q: How do you decide which teaching strategies to use in your class?
A: I base my instruction on developmental considerations, plus an understanding of my students’ relevant experience. I consider contextual influences on student development, such as culture, family, and learning styles.
Staying self-reflective is important to improving my strategies. I take time to think about what worked, annotate lesson plans, and consider unexpected outcomes in student learning . Additionally, I stay informed through my membership in professional development organizations, such as the NAEA.
Q: What are some of your favorite art and education resources?
A: Art21 is my favorite resource for teaching with contemporary art. I've met teachers of all grades and subjects who have used Art21 videos and educator guides to the benefit of their curriculum. Olivia Gudé's e-Portfolio, Art Education 2.0, and Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) are other go-to online resources that I find useful. I also look to local art museums, galleries, and nonprofit organizations to organize artist talks and field trips, or use their professional development programming. Many museums (MoMA, El Museo, LACMA, e.g.) offer useful resources online.
For resources I enjoy about the art world in general, both in my local community and abroad, please see my Pinterest board.