Art Teacher Toolbox
Art lessons follow the same general flow as lessons in other subjects. Below are descriptions of the components that I include in a complete art lesson. However, not every lesson needs to include all of these.
Art History
(Usually the Anticipatory Set) Art historical pieces connect students with other artists and provide excellent examples of skills to be taught. Allow students time to absorb the image before jumping into the discussion. Use the end of the discussion to focus on the skill about to be taught.Modeling
(Guided Practice) It is important for students to see demonstrations of skills to be practiced. Try working in small groups as much as possible.Clear and Limited Objectives
offer students practice at problem solving, provide direction, and limit the scope of a project.Art Creation
(Independent Practice) Keep in mind that creating art is a process-not dissimilar to the writing process. Different stages require different strategies and activities. I like to break the process into three parts for both my students and myself.Warm Up might include thumbnail sketching, research, studies, media experimentation, observing artwork.
During Art Production, students should be encouraged to keep referring to their model or plan, use common sense with materials, add unique touches, and rebound from any 'mistakes'.
Working in the Final Stage needs to include paying attention to details and finishing touches, carrying the job to completion, and readying the artwork for display.
Art Critques
(Extended Closure) reinforces lesson objectives, promotes students' self-esteem and encourages community. All projects need to be present for the critique. They might be displayed already or they could be set on the floor, taped to the chalkboard, pinned to a bulletin board, etc.During an art critique, you might compliment specific student works, point out how students met the objectives, praise unique approaches, and ask students to share any successes or challenges. Eventually, you'll want to encourage students to join in this process. Rules and/or etiquette need to be established in the beginning.
Displaying art work
adds nice closure to a project. It also reinforces the idea of audience which can help motivate students. Places for display might include the traditional hallway bulletin board, school library, cafeteria, local public library, a grocery store or other local business,©2001 Jennifer MacLeod