Course Abstract:

Visual Arts are a form of human expression. Through arts we can show our thoughts, emotions, opinions; we can communicate our ideas, but we can also explore our society and our world. We are looking forward to an interesting year during which you will learn a great deal about the world of art by doing and reflecting on many new concepts, materials, and techniques in visual arts.

Holistic – through the study of art, students will improve their skills so that they can perform their artwork with self confidence. They will improve their knowledge so that they can enjoy their own and other people’s artworks as a sophisticated consumer. Intercultural – Art is the first language of any culture. Art from many cultures will be studied in order for students to gain a greater understanding of arts universal purpose and appeal

Communication – The visual arts contributes to the students and the school curriculum by offering a distinct way of learning, seeing, feeling, hearing, thinking and creating that when combined allows a student to communicate on a visual, aural and tactile level.

Grading Procedures: While importance is placed on students’ individual expression, artwork is not judged on talent, but established criteria. The criteria and possible points for each project assigned are as follows:

• Completes assignment on time – students are graded on self-motivated, self-starting. Total possible points 10.

• Following instructions – meeting project objectives and showing enough details in final project that represent concepts from planning to layout. Total possible points 20.

• Craftsmanship – amount of thought, care, neatness and attention to detail. Total possible points 30. 

• Technical use of medium – use refinement and control in handling tools and materials in a safe and responsible manner. Total possible points 10 

• Problem solving and creative thinking – students are to exhibit uniqueness and originality of idea. Total possible points 30.

Students’ work is kept in Art Portfolios during the academic year. Students may choose some work for special school or Union Academy art exhibits. All of the students’ work is displayed in the school hallways and classrooms. A part of the art portfolio is the Developmental Workbook where each student takes notes, describes the procedure, reflects on the process, and evaluates the quality of his/her work. Students will need to provide a sturdy, preferable hard-covered, notebook because this same developmental notebook will be used in visual arts from grades 6-10.