Welcome to Art!
Name:______
Date:______
Due: ______
*Directions: Read the following and return signed by a parent or guardian the following art class to Mrs. Corcoran
5 Points
Art with Mrs. Carolyn Corcoran at Mary Seat of Wisdom for grades Pre-K 4- 8
Here, you will find an overview of the art curriculum and important information regarding policies for the year (not all information will apply to all students). I look forward to an engaging and successful year with students as we create, learn and appreciate art together.
Expectations:
1. I expect your best work and your best effort.
2. I expect respect for fellow students, teachers, and the classroom environment.
3. I expect you to ask questions and take the initiative for your own learning.
Materials
Grades 6-8 need to have a sketchbook.They must bring this to class every art class.This is mandatory. You can purchase a sketchbook at Blick, Walgreens, Michael’s, or any arts and crafts supplier. The sketchbook needs to have BLANK drawing pages, not lined pages. Notebooks are not acceptable. All other materials will be provided. If you choose to purchase a sketchbook that pages may fall out easily, you are responsible for keeping track of all pages.
Many students choose to carry their book with them because sketchbooks are like a visual journal, and many times they get ideas or are engaged in their creative process outside of class. Sketchbooks are an opportunity to record spontaneous ideas, practice skills learned in class, and take notes on art elements, movements, and artists. I have many, many sketchbooks that I have kept over the years and as an artist sometimes when I look through them, I feel as if I’m watching myself grow up!
Content
Our curriculum is based in a Discipline-Based Art Education (DBAE) model of art education, which emphasizes four basic areas of art education:
- Art Production: This area focuses on individual expression, creative problem solving, and developing fine motor skills. We use a wide variety of materials (tempera paint, watercolor, clay, fabrics, repurposed materials, oil pastels, and charcoal). We will also be exploring and developing many different techniques such as collage, painting, drawing, ceramics, 3-D Art, and installation.
- Art History: Art history is an integral part of a well-rounded, enriched understanding of art and the art world. Gradually, we will explore the who, what, where, when, and why of individual art works and make connections between them. I also intentionally emphasize artwork from a wide variety of cultures and underrepresented artists. We also look at art movements and their connection to society’s growth and development.
- Art Criticism: Learning to talk about art is important! Art involves a unique language and vocabulary, which students will learn and apply during class. Therefore, we have critiques that serve as a platform for understanding why something is unique, impactful, beautiful, interesting, or important. These critiques focus on famous artists but most frequently focus on the art we have made as a class. When students are encouraging and affirming each other, it builds their creative confidence! Seeing, acknowledging and nurturing the creative potential in each student is something I take seriously and see as an opportunity to build self-esteem and confidence.
- Aesthetic Awareness: This area focuses on the philosophy of art. Typically I emphasize this only in the middle grades (6-8), as it engages abstract thought, which develops more so in adolescence. Aesthetics covers topics such as, why something that is considered ugly or beautiful to some people or in some cultures is seen as just the opposite to others or in other cultures. These discussions, games, and activities seldom lead to concrete answers. Instead the processing of these questions and topics lead to a greater awareness of the importance and dignity of individuals and their ideas, as well as an increase in divergent and critical thinking.
Homework
Students in grades 4-8 receive homework related to specific projects and units. For example, students may be asked to complete a written artist statement reflecting a project they completed. Or, students may be asked to print out a specific painting and complete an art criticism packet. Due to our limited time together, and amount o time in between classes, homework is not only helpful in retaining concepts and reinforcing deeper understandings, but is also given in approachable amounts with more than enough time to complete. Students will not be expected to complete art projects at home, due to issues with materials.
If a student does not complete an art project on time, or needs additional time (at teacher’s discretion), they may come in to the art room TUESDAYS at lunchtime (11:45-12:30).
Grading/ Assessment
Before each activity or project, I am clear on the expectations and goals for that activity or project.Most projects are based on a rubric or Points of Assessment list, covering core concepts and principles related to the DBAE content model and to the Illinois Visual Arts State Standards.
K-2: At the end of the trimester, they will receive a check, a check plus or a minus based on their projects, efforts, and participation throughout that time.
3&4: Students receive a letter grade for each project or activity during the trimester. Most projects and activities have a simple rubric, addressing the product and the process; as well as their participation. The overall trimester grade is a culmination of these things.
5-8: Students receive a letter grade for each project or activity based on a rubric or specific criterion, covering the project and participation. I will present this to them before the project or activity begins.
*Students in grades 3-8 receive a citizenship grade, which is part of their overall final grade. This involves students’ responsibility in regard to materials and cleanup, consistent effort on each project, edifying the classroom environment, and participating in classroom critiques and discussions.
*Extra credit opportunities are listed on a sheet by the door and can be used one time per trimester.
Art Displays
Displaying student art is an important part of our art program. All parents are welcome and invited to see the great displays in the hall and glass case throughout the year. We also facilitate a Fine Arts Night in May that showcases students’ artistic accomplishments from the school year. Information about this will be announced closer to the date.
Art in the community
There are many art-related activities and events that take place within and around the community throughout the year. A hard copy list of these events will be posted on the bulletin board in the art room and updated as needed. Students who attend any of these events or other related art events will potentially be eligible for extra credit if extra credit has not already been given and if documentation from event attendance is shown.
Students are also chosen to participate in various art shows and competitions throughout the year. The Park Ridge Public Library as well as Mother Guerin College Prep host two notable shows that select students participate in during the spring and fall seasons.
Guest Artists
Students are encouraged to learn about practical careers in art through engaging with guest artists who are invited into the classroom to talk about their professions. Some of these careers include, graphic design, advertising, children’s book illustration, textbook illustration, web design, and video game design.
Art Club
Art Club Meets one time per week after school during a designated 8-week session in the school year. The sessions are divided between ages K-3 and 4-8. Each session holds a maximum of 30 students. Students who register after the class is full will not be able to attend. Look for art club information and details in upcoming NewsBlasts.
Contact: You can reach me via email at
Website:
Digital Portfolio:
Parent Name (Printed):______
Parent Signature:______
Date: ______