Standards – Based Instructional Unit

Subject: Visual Art GRADE/LEVEL: 9-12

COURSE: Acrylic Painting

Topic: Course Overview
21st Century Graduation Expectation(s):
1.1  Acquiring and applying knowledge and skills within and across the curriculum
1.2  Analyzing and evaluating information
2.1  Working cooperatively and/or independently
2.2  Applying problem solving strategies
2.3  Utilizing resources and time effectively
2.4  Accessing, compiling, and interpreting and presenting data and information
3.1  Recognizing and respecting the diversity and individuality of others.
3.2  Understanding and accepting the benefits and consequences of his/her behavior
3.3  Participating in community service, leadership and/or school activities
4.1  Writing clearly, concisely and persuasively
4.2  Speaking, listening and interpreting effectively
Rhode Island Grade Span Expectation:
R2 Vocabulary Strategies
W2/W3 Response to Text
W6/W7/W8 Informational Writing
W14 Expressive Writing (Reflective Essay)
OC1 Interactive Listening
M(G&M) 10-2, 10, M(F&A) 4
Rhode Island Grade Span Expectations for Applied Learning Standards:
·  Problem Solving
·  Critical Thinking
·  Research
·  Communication
·  Reflection and Evaluation / National Standards:
Visual Art and Design 1- Creative Process- Visual art and design is the process of creative problem solving using both traditional and innovative media, tools, techniques, and processes in order to make the imagined visible.
Visual Art and Design 2 – Cultural Contexts – Visual Art and Design creatively expresses the values and ideas of the human experience, community and civilization.
Visual Art and Design 3 – Communication – Visual Art and Design is a vehicle for expression and communication through the use and development of metaphor and symbol systems.
Visual Art and Design 4 – Aesthetic Judgment- Applying knowledge of Visual Art and Design in order to reflect on and evaluate the work of self and others.
Essential Question(s):
1. What is color theory?
2. How do colors affect people?
3. What are the differences between the painting styles studied in class?
4. What are the differences and similarities between acrylic paint and oil paints?
5. How painting influenced society?
6. How does weather affect colors?
7. How does perspective affect colors?
8. How is Math used in a grid system?
9. How do line markings affect moods?
10. How do critiques help in creating a painting?
11. How is canvas different from paper?
Content Topics:
Color theory, color usage, blending and mixing, painting styles, color characteristics, artists, paint and tool differences, canvas and paper differences, societal influences, presentation and exhibition of work
Student-Centered Instructional Strategies:
1.  Color theory will be introduced – color wheel and its properties.
2.  Introduction to basic painting skills, techniques and processes.
3.  Acrylic based paints will be introduced as opposed to oils and enamels.
4.  Connections to history and culture will be integrated into projects.
5.  Exploration of painting styles.
6.  Identification and utilization of painting tools, equipment and surfaces.
7.  Combinations of media and found materials
8.  Painting influences on society and culture
9. Presentation and exhibition of work
10. Teacher will encourage creativity, originality, imagination and effort
11. Environmental impacts on color.
12. Stretching of canvas and canvas board
Student-Centered Learning Tasks and Opportunities:
1.  Students will explore the simplest methods of color theory.
2.  Techniques used in acrylic painting will be presented by demonstration, experimentation, viewing of student examples, and master prints.
3.  All aspects of acrylic based painting will be presented; color mixing, color blending, brush handling, glazing, overlays, and final preservation and presentation of painting.
4.  Art history will be presented with slides, photographs, videos, books, written documentation, prints and computer technology to research artists and styles.
5.  Students will stretch a canvas and prepare canvas board.
6.  Student will create multiple solutions to specific visual art painting projects – problem solving.
7.  Students will identify their strengths and weaknesses in painting and document their personal progress.
8.  Students will use painting tools, equipment and media in a safe and responsible manner.
9.  Students will manage their time to meet deadlines.
9. Student will be creative, original, and use imagination and effort.
Instructional Resources and Equipment:
Reference books, videos, DVD’s, slides, prints, examples of student work, computer, painting supplies, slide projector, overhead, TV, canvas stretcher tools, board preparation (gesso)
Assessment Task(s):
Studio production, critiques, portfolio entries, exhibition, quizzes, written exams, journals, sketchbook, research paper, common assessment task, reflective writings, expressive writings, canvas preparation
Reflection/Comments:
Acrylic painting course is very popular amongst students. Class size is mostly at max. Students leave the class with skills, confidence and an ability to paint on their own. Many students sell their paintings or give them away as gifts. Students in this class are amazing as to what they can achieve.