Course Profile   Visual Arts, Grade 9 open, Public

 

Unit #2: Cultural Diversity

 

Activity 1 | Activity 2 | Activity 3 | Activity 4

 

Time:   22 hours

 

Unit Description:

The central theme for this unit is “Cultural Diversity.”  Students will use art production skills and certain elements and principles of design to explore problems related to drawing, printmaking, and collage.  Concepts such as Canadian identity, symbolism, and point of view are explored through studio responses, art history images, and critical analysis/interpretation exercises.  Three essential questions which frame this unit are:

            1. How does art communicate cultural values, beliefs, and roles? (context)

            2. How can art be different and the same? (production)

            3. What  role does the artist play within society? (reflection)

 

Content Focus

       Analysis:       essential questions, recording information, drawing, observation

       Creation:        drawing, collage, relief printmaking

       Theory:          culture, symbols, elements and principles, Canadian Art

Resource Journal

Reflection; planning; data collection; note taking; drawing, research about artists, research about techniques

Essential Questions

       What role does  the artist play in society?  (reflection)

       How can art be different and the same?  (production)

       How does art communicate cultural values, beliefs, and roles?  (context)

Assessment Strategies

(observable data)

       Check lists, observations, attendance and lates, work habits etc.- see Appendix E

 Evaluation Strategies

(assigned marks)

       Scoring rubrics and scales, tests, etc. - see Appendix E

Connections

(to previous units)

Symbols, culture, build on the insights from the essential questions, elements and principles, drawing techniques

Activities

       Activity 1: “Same Difference” - Point of View (2.5 hours)

       Activity 2: Bicultural Collage (4 hours)

       Activity 3: Defining Cultures through Art (4 hours)

       Activity 4: “I AM”- Relief Printmaking and Modular Group Project (12 hours)

 

Strands & Expectations

 

            Strands:           Creation, Analysis, Theory

 

            Overall Expectations:            VCV.01X-5X; VAV.01X-3X; VTV.01X-4X.

 

Specific Expectations:  VC1.01X-2X; VC2.01X; VC2.04X; VC2.06X; VC3.01X; VC3.03X; VA1.01X-02; VA1.04X; VA2.01X; VA2.03X; VT1.01X; VT2.01X-3X; VT3.01X-4X.

 

Unit Planning Notes

 

     Continue to make use of the Resource Journal as a learning tool in visualizing concepts; producing preliminary drawings; for gathering imagery, symbols, and related research; and for evaluating work accordingly and intermittently.

     The consideration of concepts like “diversity”, “cultural groupings”, “tolerance”, “bias”, and “stereotype” will lead to lively discussions and varied viewpoints, but has the potential for creating conflict.  Teachers should exercise sensitivity, fairness, and discretion to ensure that all views are heard and no one is excluded; however, the overt promotion of hatred towards any individual or group, for whatever reason, should not be tolerated under any circumstances; clear guidelines for appropriate discussion must be established by the teacher, in negotiation with the students.

     Try to select visual examples that are multicultural; expose students to non-Western images and artifacts, as well as those from local communities, popular culture, and varied historical sources; pose questions for inquiry about displayed images and ask students to make visual comparisons to reveal both difference and similarities.

     Provide students with visual research strategies; schedule library time for on-line internet investigation as well as book, periodical, vertical file searches and other electronic media.

     The following definition for “culture” provides a starting point for discussion: “The totality of ideas, beliefs, values, knowledge, habits, and way of life of a group of individuals who share certain historical experiences. Culture changes continually and thus often contains elements of conflict and opposition.”  (Changing Perspectives - Ministry of Education and Training, 1992)

     Lesson design needs to show a smooth transition from one concept to the next.

     Early planning and acquisition of quality slides and/or reproductions are suggested as the variety of images used in lessons has a significant impact on the success of the activity.

     Lessons need to be tailored to meet the needs of individual students within a class.

     The three essential questions should be prominently displayed in the classroom so that teachers can easily refer to these questions throughout the unit.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

(from: The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1 - 8, 1998)

Students should be able:

     to demonstrate how the repetition of elements of design creates rhythm which unifies the composition;

     to show how the elements of design are used to create areas of emphasis;

     to organize the elements of design to create symmetrical and asymmetrical balance in compositions;

     to select tools, materials and techniques appropriate to the size, scope and intent of an art work;

     to organize their art works to create a specific effect using at least two of the elements of design;

     to produce two- and three-dimensional works of art that communicate a range of thoughts, feelings, and experiences for specific purposes;

     to describe the main idea that they wish to communicate and the decisions that they have made to support that message;

     to identify strengths and areas for improvement in their own work and that of others;

     to describe how artists representing various periods, styles and cultures have used similar materials, tools and principles of design for a variety of purposes;

     to explain how the effective use of the elements and principles of design contributes to an art work’s ability to communicate feelings, convey ideas and enrich people’s lives;

     to explain their preference for specific art works, with reference to the artist’s use of the principles of design and their understanding of the ideas and feelings expressed in the work;

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

The teacher will make the following considerations in teaching and learning strategies:

     focus on performances that will demonstrate genuine understanding; explanation, interpretation, application, perspective (points of view), empathy, and self-knowledge;

     strive for a balanced approach to concepts and skills: teacher-directed and student-centred instruction; intuition/feeling and reasoning/thinking; repetition of skills to develop depth and experimentation to develop breadth; 2D and 3D experiences; individual work and collaborative activities;

     continue to model for students that being an artist is a fundamental human response to the world based on thinking and feeling;

     incorporate critical thinking skills into lessons (see Appendices F, G, H, J, K)

     model levels of achievement for students;

     use a variety of teaching strategies (see Appendix D)

     take opportunities to make career connections, especially in the curator task in activity 3;

     allow for the development of the student portfolio (see Appendix C); continue to make use of the resource journal (see Appendix B);

     allow for different learning styles and student modifications in lesson design (see Appendices D, I).

 

 

Assessment/Evaluation

 

     simple checklist/holistic evaluation of point of view contour drawings (see Appendix E);

     assign resource journal drawings and check for completion;

     evaluation scales used for Bi-cultural Collage;

     “Museum Curators” group presentation is evaluated using a checklist and anecdotal comments; peer evaluation as well;

     Canadian symbols quiz;

     Relief printmaking evaluated using a rubric; self-evaluation based on reflective questions; peer evaluation of installation teams; teacher anecdotal comments regarding class collaboration;

     evaluation rubric (see Appendix N) for Activity #4, “I Am”.

 

 

Activity #1 : “Same Difference” - Point of View

 

Time:  2.5 hours

 

Description

 

Using contour drawing as a vehicle for exploring and understanding various ways of seeing a specific location or object, students will acquire an understanding of the concept point of view.  This will be related to the essential question: How can art be different and the same?  Art images of a common theme or subject, produced by different artists, are used to introduce and define the unit theme of cultural diversity.

 

Strands and Expectations

 

            Strands:           Creation, Analysis, Theory

 

            Overall Expectations:

            At the end of Grade 9, students will:         VCV.01X-5X; VAV.01X-3X; VTV.01X-4X.

 

            Specific Expectations:

            Students will:                 VC1.01X-2X; VC2.01X; VC2.04X; VC2.06X; VC3.01X; VC3.03X;

                                                VA1.01X-02; VA1.04X; VA2.01X; VA2.03X ; VT1.01X;

                                                VT2.01X-3X; VT3.01X-4X.

 

Planning Notes

 

     Ensure that the setting which students are drawing provides enough variety for multiple points of view, i.e., library, cafeteria, hallways;

     Establish procedures and protocol for classroom critique sessions ahead of time;

     Include critical analysis in lessons - see Appendices F, G, H, J, K;

     Limit the selection of media for contour drawing; graphite pencil or stick, or markers are best;

     When displaying multiple viewpoint drawings, teacher may try to recreate the location by mounting drawings in their actual spatial location,. i.e., floor views grouped together;

     Ensure that the three essential questions are posted in the classroom;

     Visual resources, i.e., post cards, reproductions, slides, calenders, textbook illustrations, overheads, internet, CD ROMs should be accessible.

 

Prior Knowledge Required

 

     Students should be familiar with methods of contour drawing, eye/hand co-ordination, and use of drawing media;

     Students should be conversant with different types of subject matter: landscape, portrait, genre, still-life, figure, abstraction, fantasy, narrative/historical;

     Build on skills of critical inquiry and interpretation from the previous unit.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

 

1.   (a)  Send students, either individually, in pairs or in small groups, out of the classroom to draw or photograph a place in the school (i.e.,the cafeteria or resource centre).  Make the directions very general and non-specific, (i.e.,they may position themselves anywhere for drawing.) Drawing can be done as detailed contour drawings or fully rendered value studies; these drawings should be as descriptive as possible.

 

      A short review or warm-up lesson on contour drawing can be planned OR, set aside a class for an introduction to contour.  Contour drawing captures the edges or contours of figures or objects in a slow and deliberate manner.  Contour drawings are concerned with shape and structure.  (Refer students back to Unit 1, Activity 1.)  Emphasize continuous, close observation and slow movement of the pencil.  This form of outline contour drawing will prepare students for the challenge of a larger view.  Design: Stress varieties of lines; value used for contrast and emphasis within a drawing; selection or framing of the view is significant in determining point of view.

 

      Extensions: Instead of drawing, students could photograph the setting or object from multiple perspectives.  Use 35mm or Polaroid cameras.  Instead of contour or value studies, the drawings could be interpreted in a more subjective way.  Students could produce abstract or expressionistic versions of the same subject matter.  The purpose of the assignment remains the same, regardless of the approach.

 

(b)  Compare the images by displaying and critiquing the drawings created by everyone in the class. Ask the following questions:

 

           Why are these images of the same subject all so different?

           How have individuals interpreted the instructions?

           Are some pictures more correct or better than others?

           Where was the artist standing or positioned?

           How far away or close up is the subject?

           How do these different views make you feel?

 

2.   Introduce the concept of “point of view”.  How does it relate to the way we see things?  Can a different point of view about the same object communicate a different meaning?  How?  Note the fact that these views are different, but the same.  This will lead into the first essential question: “How can art be different and the same?

 

3.   Have students locate and sort reproductions of a specific subject (still-life, landscape, portrait, etc.) as interpreted by three different artists and identify similarities and differences, in oral or written form. (See Appendix K- “20 Questions about Art”)  Have students discuss these examples, highlighting the significance of diversity and variations of viewpoints that are informed by a common theme.  Move the activities into a broader context by asking students to pick three different areas or regions in Canada that they have experienced (experiences could be physically going there, living there, looking at pictures, reading about the area, or hearing about the area through friends and the media).  Ask students how these areas of Canada are “different and the same?  Now have students look at their three reproduction examples.  How are these three images “different and the same?  What one artist sees may be interpreted differently from another artist.  How does the exercise with the three reproductions mirror our contemporary Canadian society (i.e., three landscapes, but each one is unique, and each group member may have different experiences from other group members)?  Lead students to a definition of cultural diversity, with the understanding that we live in a single nation comprised of diverse cultures and points of view.

 

4.   (a)  Extensions - (use with student Resource Journal)

            Find photographs in magazines or books that appear  unusual because of their point of view. Students could do another drawing here, inspired by a viewpoint in the photos found.

            Follow-up Questions: Explain what is so unusual about your photo.  Why do you think the photographer chose this particular way of seeing?  How does it add to the meaning of the subject in the photo?

            A display of these drawings could provide interesting classroom discussion around viewpoint.

 

      (b)  Find artwork or photographic images that are depicted from a high position, off the ground or a low position, near to the ground or floor.  Find photos that show the subject very close to the camera or far off in the distance.  (Aerial photos work well.)

            Follow-Up Questions: Describe how objects or people appear when photographed or seen from a high vantage point.  Can you think of some words to describe this feeling? (Ask similar inquiry questions about low angle shots, long shots and close-ups).  How does each one make you feel about your subject?  Why might you feel differently towards them when you look at the close-up as compared to the shot taken from a distance?

            To illustrate this discussion, have students play with a video camera and a monitor. Have them shoot an object from bird’s eye view, or from worm’s eye view. Have them experiment with exaggeration, distortion, and intensity of light and dark to create a dramatic effect.

 

Accommodation

 

     Pair students for the image sorting and written responses to differing points of view.

     Make drawing critique/follow-up questions available on an overhead transparency.

     See Appendix I for modifications.

 

Assessment and Evaluation

 

     Simple checklist/holistic evaluation may be used for point of view contour drawings (see sample Appendix M);

     Have students record observations pertaining to point of view in their Resource Journals;

     Self-evaluation questions should be used.

 

Resources

 

Mittler, Gene A.  Creating and Understanding Drawings.  (Mission Hills, CA: Macmillian/McGraw- Hill, 1995) ISBN: 0-02-662228-9

Kauplis, Robert. Experimental Drawing.  (New York: Watson-Guptill, 1980)

ISBN: 0-8230-1618-8

Barrett, Terry.  Talking About Student Art.  (Worcester, MA: Davis Publications, 1997).

ISBN: 0-87192-361-0

 

 

 

Activity #2 : Bi-cultural Collage

 

Time:               4 hours

 

Description

 

Following a discussion that leads to an initial definition of “culture”, students are asked to identify a culture to which they personally belong.  Stress the importance of looking beyond ethnic or national descriptions (refer to planning notes for the definition of culture). Assist students in creating an inclusive and broad definition of culture, one that is based on everyday experience, social criticism, and many voices.

Symbols and images from specific cultures will be researched and gathered together in the form of a Bi-cultural Collage that visually incorporates and reconciles two contrasting cultural groups.

 

Strands and Expectations

Strands:                       Creation, Analysis, Theory

Overall Expectations:

At the end of Grade 9, students will:        VCV.01X-5X; VAV.01X-3X; VTV.01X-4X.

Specific Expectations:

            Students will:     VC1.01X-2X; VC2.01X; VC2.04X; VC2.06X; VC3.01X; VC3.03X;
VA1.01X-02; VA1.04X; VA2.01X; VA2.03X ; VT1.01X; VT2.01X-3X; VT3.01X-4X.

Planning Notes

     Teachers must be aware of the potential for conflicting opinions among students with differing views or beliefs.  Ensure that students are made aware of expectations for productive and inclusive discussion.

Prior Knowledge Required

 

     Use of brainstorming as an idea-generating strategy

     Students should be familiar with the use of design principles for composition (i.e. contrast, balance, rhythm, unity, etc.)

     Students should be acquainted with collage techniques for combining found and drawn images

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Ask students to record in their Resource Journal, which cultural groups they belong to, and what makes these groups distinctive.  Using this recorded information, have students decide what or who defines their group, using the headings “appearance”, “organization”, “beliefs”, and “purpose”.  This will eventually lead to a consideration  of  the attributes of a culture (i.e. youth, rappers, family, etc.)

2.   Have students brainstorm a list of the various kinds of cultures in their local community (i.e., school, family) and from a more global context (i.e. age, religion, ethnic background, race, gender, sexual orientation).  Students should then be directed to identify the various cultures that they belong to.  Stress with students that this exercise only reveals a portion of their personal identity.  People are actually much more complex and multi-faceted than the one or two groups that they identify with.

3.   (a)  Introduce collage assignment.  Review collage techniques and approaches to design/composition.  Students must choose two contrasting cultural groups to which they personally belong, or one of their own cultures contrasted with another.  Using their resource journals, they are to research and collect information that will provide them with visual materials for the collage (photographs, symbols, magazine or newspaper reproductions, objects, drawn images, etc.).  “Cultural Diversity is a fact.  Most North Americans live in dynamic, nonstatic combinations of multiple cultures and subcultures.  These overlapping groups may be identified by ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, geographic location and mobility, income, occupation, education and other factors.”
Chalmers, F. Graeme. Celebrating Pluralism: Art, Education and Cultural Diversity: (The Getty Education Institute for the Arts, 1994).

      Address the essential question “How does art communicate cultural values, beliefs, and roles?” by having students prepare a list of visual images, symbols, emblems, words, and objects, as well as beliefs, values, and roles, that make up their particular culture. Students can be provided with headings or a formatted handout to be kept in their Resource Journal.

 

(b)  Collage Techniques.  Many students have done collage work previously, but rarely have been taught about composition, selection of images, contrast, and so on.  Collage as a process involves stages of gathering and sorting images, objects, and found materials; tearing or cutting; arranging and experimenting with composition (according to design principles); adhering or fixing things in place; reworking the surface, if necessary; and glazing or matting for final presentation.  Emphasize the process of purposeful manipulation of images and symbols on the surface paper before fixing permanently; encourage students to add colour media or other textured materials (gauze or acetate) for a desired effect.

(c)  As a part of this work, students should write a short paragraph/artist’s statement responding to the following questions: Identify and describe the various cultural elements/symbols/images you have used.  What is the message you want to communicate to viewers?  Does your  collage communicate your intentions clearly and effectively?

Assessment/Evaluation

     Evaluation scales using criteria such as planning & preparation (use of resource journal/drawings); unity of design; clarity of purpose; variety of materials and techniques; commitment and time management.

     See Appendices M and N for examples.

Resources

Brommer, Gerald.  Collage Techniques: A Guide for Artists and Illustrators.  (New York: Watson-Guptill, 1994) ISBN: 0-8230-0655-7
Cahan, Susan and Zoya Kohur.  Contemporary Art and Multicultural Education.  (New York: New Museum of Art, 1996) ISBN: 0-415-91189-3
Chalmers, Graham.  Celebrating Pluralism: Art Education and Cultural Diversity.  (Los Angeles, CA: The Getty Education Institute for the Arts, 1996) ISBN: 0-89236-393-2
Larbalestier, Simon.  The Art and Craft of Montage.  (London: Mitchell Beazley International, 1993)  ISBN: 1-85732-099-9

 

Activity #3 : Defining Cultures Through Art

Time:                    3.5 hours

Description

Through the examination and analysis of artworks, students will be able to identify and describe common themes and characteristics found in Canadian art, and recognize the diversity of cultures, both past and present, that inform the Canadian identity.

Strands and Expectations

Strands:     Creation, Analysis, Theory

Overall Expectations:

            At the end of Grade 9, students will:         VCV.01X-5X; VAV.01X-3X; VTV.01X-4X

  Specific Expectations:

  Students will:               VC1.01X-2X; VC2.01X; VC2.04X; VC2.06X; VC3.01X; VC3.03X;
            VA1.01X-02; VA1.04X; VA2.01X; VA2.03X; VT1.01X; VT2.01X-3X;
            VT3.01X-4X.

Planning Notes

     If a trip to an Art Gallery or Museum can be arranged, students will gain a much clearer picture of the role of these institutions, as well as the job of a curator in organizing exhibitions. It is necessary to remember that direct experience with an art gallery/museum is a valuable tool in assisting students with the understanding of the direction, policies, and jobs within the gallery collection and exhibitions. If an actual visit is not possible, many galleries/museums can be viewed through collection catalogues and Internet/web sites.

     Images of Canadian art should be diverse, both in historical context and cultural representation: French, Inuit, First Nations, early British, Contemporary, ethno-cultural.  This list is not intended to be exhaustive, but selective and broad in scope.

     Provide opportunities for students to see actual works of art by Canadians, if possible, at local galleries.

     Put up reproductions of works by Canadian artists.

     Works of art and art objects are visual records of the beliefs, understandings, attitudes and feelings of individual societies. The analytical and critical examination of the work of artists and designers of different eras and cultures is a key factor in the development of the aesthetic judgement and the understanding of our artistic heritage. (Viewing Art, p. 3, Ministry of Education and Training, 1990)

 

Prior Knowledge

     Concepts from grades seven and eight History program (see The Ontario Curriculum: Social Studies Grades 1-6 : History and Geography Grades 7 and 8)

     Students should have previous experience with critical viewing and inquiry about works of art

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   (a)  Ask students to draw or collect symbols that they think represent the Canadian identity.  Discuss what makes these Canadian.  Consider the quality of these symbols.  Are they common, traditional or shared?  Are they stereotypes?  Do they come from our past or present?  Are they influenced by popular culture or media?  Are they multi-cultural and inclusive?

(b)  Move from graphic images or traditional symbols explored in the previous exercise.  Now have students consider more complex images that could represent our Canadian identity or culture.  Using available reproductions, show students a mixed collection of artworks and ask them to determine which ones are Canadian.  Ask students what makes these Canadian.  In groups, have students compile a list of common qualities or features of Canadian art - “Canadian art is…”.  Go back and view the visuals while reviewing students’ responses.  How are Canadian symbols similar and different to Canadian art?  This will lead into the essential question “How can art be different and the same”?

      OR

      Do the “Picture Round-Robin” inquiry exercise. (See Appendix H, “Appreciation and Critical Thinking Activities”)  Elements and principles of design are addressed in this exercise.

2.   (a)  “A Walk Across Canada”.  In a teacher-directed session, students will view ten examples of Canadian art from a variety of historical and regional cultures. Keep this short, but poignant (possibly only 20 or 25 minutes).

(b)  Allow students to select one of the above works and respond in writing using the “Viewing Art” inquiry questions (See Appendices F and G) Have students respond to the essential question “What is the role of the artist in society?” by identifying these roles from the reproductions used during the class discussions.

3.   Museum Curators.  Provide each group of four students with a floor plan of an existing or imaginary museum or art gallery.  Choose Canadian works from available visual resources; provide sets of identical artworks to each group or allow the choice of a fixed number of works from a larger selection.  Students are to make curatorial decisions about the arrangement of artworks in the museum spaces and must be able to explain their organization (chronological, thematic, contrast, etc.).  Groups will present their deliberations to the class, in the role of docents, and discuss installation plans for their exhibition.  Variation: Create a wall plan. Make small photocopies of a set of images. Provide each group with a blank wall plan. The students can choose the colour of the wall, colour in the photocopies, draw in doors and furniture, and paste the art work onto the wall and into the display cases.

Extension:  Have the students produce a model of the actual museum floor plan, including miniature reproductions of the works.

Assessment/Evaluation

Presentation evaluation can be done using a checklist and anecdotal comments.  Criteria could include preparation, quality of collaboration, vocal delivery, reasoning and explanation.  See samples in Appendix M.

Resources

Burnett, David & Marilyn Schiff.  Contemporary Canadian Art.  (Edmonton, AB: Hurtig Publishers, 1983). ISBN: 0-88830-241-X
Burnett, David.  Masterpieces of Canadian Art from the National Gallery of Canada.  (Edmonton, AB: Hurtig Publishers, 1990). ISBN: 0-88830-344-0

Finn, David.  How To Visit A Museum.  (New York: Abrams, 1995).

ISBN: 0-8109-2297-5

Reid, Dennis.  A Concise History of Canadian Painting.  (2nd Ed. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1988) ISBN: 0-19-540663-X

Stewart, Marilyn G.  Using an Art Museum.  (Worcester, MA: Davis Publications, 1999)

Stewart, Hilary.  Looking at Indian Art of the North-west Coast.  (Vancouver, BC: Douglas and McIntyre, 1979) ISBN: 0-88894-229-X

Ontario Ministry of Education.  A Resource Guide for Anti-racist and Ethnocultural – Equity Education.  (Toronto, ON: Queen’s Printer, 1992) ISBN: 0-7729-8337-2

 

 

 

Activity #4 : “I AM” - Relief Printmaking & Modular Group Project    

Time:                   12 hours  

Description

This culminating activity will allow students to reflect on the various ideas about cultural diversity that have been explored thus far.  Using the process of printmaking, students will create an edition of relief prints and contribute to a collective class project.  They will all contribute a symbolic image in print form, that is based on an exploration of  personal identity.  This could be a symbolic design representing a culture to which they have a connection, or a symbolic design of what being Canadian means to the individual.

Strands and Expectations

Strands:           Creation, Analysis and Theory 

Overall Expectations:

At the end of Grade 9, students will:         VCV.01X-5X; VAV.01X-3X; VTV.01X-4X.

 

Specific Expectations:

Students will:     VC1.01X-2X; VC2.01X; VC2.04X; VC2.06X; VC3.01X; VC3.03X;
                        VA1.01X-02; VA1.04X; VA2.01X; VA2.03X ; VT1.01X; VT2.01X-3X;
                        VT3.01X-4X.

Planning Notes

     Teacher should carefully outline safety issues around the use of lino cutting tools for Softoleum or linoleum printmaking.

     The classroom needs to be set up for printing activities. Clean-up routines must be established.

Prior Knowledge Required

     Introductory activities in printmaking, including the unique nature of a print as a multiple image;

     Specific parameters for effective collaborative group work and organization.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Review the essential questions for this unit with the students, making specific reference to concepts of cultural diversity and how these have been demonstrated through the various activities.  Discuss terms such as “tolerance”, “equity”, and “diversity”.  Revisit some of the symbols and art images that explore and represent these terms.  How have artists expressed some of these issues and ideas in their art work?  Look at what students have collected in their Resource Journals that represent different cultural groups.  Look for both similarities and differences.  Ensure that some consideration of eliminating stereotypes and having students think more broadly, from varying viewpoints, is included.  Through reflection about this unit, students should begin to recognize cultural diversity as a balance between understanding cultural similarities and differences, and encouraging individuals to maintain and broaden their own cultures and cultural perspectives.

2.   (a)  Introduce the culminating project where students will produce artworks both individually and as a group.  The title and inspirational phrase for this printmaking activity is “I AM”.  Students are to complete the remainder of the phrase by coming up with an image design that depicts some aspect of a specific culture to which they belong.  Have them research ideas and images from their chosen cultural group; all their research and preliminary drawings should be accumulated in their Resource Journal.  While the content is important in this assignment, students should be reminded to consider the elements and principles of design in their composition.  Teachers might wish to choose one or two specific design principles as a focus for the print design (i.e. contrast and pattern).

      (b)  Present relief printmaking as a process for creating multiple images.  A review of essential printmaking concepts and techniques may be necessary.  Have students use materials such as styrofoam, Softoleum, or linoleum for printing plates.  Demonstrate procedures for creating the plate, inking, pulling a print, and producing an edition of like images.

      (c)  The next phase is to create a group project consisting of one representative image from each student in the class.  Each image becomes a module in the larger artwork.  The final format can take the form of a quilt or fabric assemblage, by having students print their images on fabric with textile block printing inks; a paper mural, by building layers or creating collage frames for the printed images; a book, by incorporating the individual prints as separate pages with a printed or word-processed caption; or another format such as a folding screen or fabric banners.  (The quilt could be easily fastened together using metal grommets and metal stationary rings.  The teacher could briefly present the quilt as a cultural artifact and as a collaborative artwork that represents a specific community.)

            Students should collaborate on the overall design of the group artwork, including its actual construction, the order and arrangement of images, and its final installation in the classroom, school or community.  The class could be organized into work teams to handle the various tasks.

Assessment/Evaluation

     Student self-evaluation and reflection in the form of summary questions.

Peer evaluation of work teams 

Teacher evaluation of printmaking using a rubric (see Appendix N)

Resources

McKendry, Ruth.  Classic Quilts.  (Toronto, ON.:Key Porter Books, 1997) ISBN: 1-55013-755-1

Rothenstein, Michael.  Relief Printmaking.  (New York Watson-Guptill Publications, 1970)

ISBN: 73-98988

Slatkin,Wendy.  Women Artists In History: From Antiquity to the Present.  (Upper Saddle River, NJ.: Prentice Hall, 1997) ISBN: 0-13-432873-6

Toale, Bernard.  Basic Printmaking Techniques.  (Worcester MA: Davis Publications, 1992)

ISBN: 87192-237-1

 

 

Appendix A

Finding Visual Resources

 

Pictures, prints and reproductions are available from many different sources.  The key to selecting prints should be that they are inexpensive, accessible, and can be used for many varied activities within the classroom.  Reproductions of art works by professional artists should be the focus of this collection.  Visuals that demonstrate design within the environment are also important.

 

BUILDING YOUR OWN RESOURCES

 

     Library or Resource Centre picture folders

     Artist monographs or books on art (some may be bought on sale at book stores and then cut up)

     Calenders (have staff members and parents save these for you)

     Greeting cards

     Post cards (all galleries and museums sell post-card reproductions in their book/gift shops.  Look for individual cards as well as post-card books which may be less expensive than individual cards.)

     Exhibition catalogues (look for extra and/or old stock on sale tables at galleries)

     Art magazines

     General magazines and newspapers

     Illustrations from discarded books

     Reproductions and print collections may be available from galleries and/or school boards.

 

 

Appendix B

Resource Journal/File

The Resource File

The resource file should:

     relate to student assignments

     support development of art assignments and techniques

     show conceptual stages for portfolio

     show progress in critical thinking/problem solving (collection; selection; refinement)

     show reflection around aesthetical issues

     show research of artists

     reflect feedback about art criticism

     be portable, durable, storable

The resource file may include:

     preparatory sketches

     working and finished drawings

     anecdotal thoughts by artist and others

     visual resources

     self-evaluation work

     assessment sheets

     experimentation with mediums

     articles with rationale

 

The resource file may look like:

     accordion folder

     scrapbook/journal

     binder

     artist generated container

 

Assessing the file

     Does the file demonstrate sufficient research into the selected subject focus?

     Does the research allow resolve to artistic problems?

     Have new problems been addressed?

     Does the art work demonstrate an emerging pattern?

     Rubrics and checklists and assessment tools can be developed by the teacher and students.

     Regular feedback must be given to students.

     Self-evaluation and goal setting must be       ongoing.

 

Appendix C

Student Portfolio

 

The Student Portfolio will provide opportunity for students to:

     realize their learning

     communicate ideas

     express ideas

     share their learning

     set goals

     organize their work

     organize their thought process

     draw closure to a unit, course, etc.

 

PORTFOLIO STRUCTURES

 

Structure A:                               CELEBRATION PORTFOLIO

used as a keepsake

a personal collection of favourite works and academic certificates

to show positive examples of learning experiences

allows students to make the evaluations based on what is “special”

allows students to become cognizant of their strengths and interests

 

              TIME SEQUENCE PORTFOLIO

 

Structure B1:                            The Growth Portfolio:

     collection of work over time to demonstrate change in proficiency

guidelines for selection developed by teacher and /or students

     guidelines dictate indicators for a  particular proficiency or skill i.e. contour line drawing

     evaluation criteria needs to be constant over time

     feedback from teacher must be ongoing

     students are provided with substantial motivation to grow

 

Structure B2:                            The Project Portfolio:

     over time, a student shows the completion of stages to a larger assignment

     guidelines for the selection are in place, based on expectations from the curriculum documents

     guidelines dictate that student provides evidence of completing all the necessary steps

     guidelines define what quality work is (a four level rubric designed for this would be an example of guidelines that indicate various degrees of quality - see pages 60 and 61 in The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 and 10, The Arts, 1999)

     guidelines should be given to students before work begins and can be used as a feedback tool over time

     evaluation can be based on three sets of performance criteria:

1.   Achievement of the set of expectations

2.   Stages completed within given time lines

3.   Quality of work at each stage (refer to Levels of Achievement chart)

time span can vary and may range from days to an entire year

 

 

Structure C:                               STATUS REPORT PORTFOLIO

     pre-established standards of performance to be developed by teacher and/or students related to expectations found in the curriculum documents (a four level rubric designed for this would be an example of guidelines that indicate various degrees of quality - see pages 60 and 61 in The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 and 10, The Arts, 1999)

     rubrics can be used as feedback tools throughout the development of the portfolio

     process rubrics (showing the development of the portfolio content) and performance rubrics (showing the final portfolio product and presentation) could be developed

     content determined by achievement target guidelines

     students must determine that they have achieved certain levels of proficiency – student self-evaluations can be developed to assist students

     students assemble evidence of completing requirements for a particular course

     guidelines for the selection of portfolio content to be highly structured

     portfolio content to be driven by specific academic requirements

     portfolio content to provide evidence of student mastery

     portfolio content demonstrates completion of prerequisites for the next unit or course

 

PORTFOLIO EVALUATION CRITERIA

 

Developmental Level

Look for such things as student’s ability to represent figures and objects.

Look for degree of detail, accuracy of proportion and spacial relationships.

Look at the content of the resource file.

Perception

Look for student’s ability to observe and interpret their surroundings.

Look for organized essays and composed pictures.

Look at the content of the resource file.

Expressiveness

Look for clarity of ideas, both visually and verbally.

Look for variety of resources and techniques.

Look at the content of the resource file.

Inventiveness

Look for imaginative, novel or original solutions to problems.

Look for degree of elaboration on ideas and images – the number of dimensions and degree of complexity.

Look for initiative in finding additional information and tasks.

Look at the content of the resource file.

Critical Thinking

Look for reference to internal and external evidence for interpretations of pictorial meanings (including the ability to describe and use sensory and formal properties).

Look for ability to assess the value of information.

Look for reflection on and evaluation of one’s own art work and that of others.

Group and self-evaluation tools can be developed and included in the resource file.

Historical Understanding

Look for awareness of other artists, countries and times; other styles, themes, subjects and formats.

Aesthetic Appreciation

Look for ability to address “big questions.”

Look for inductive and deductive reasoning.

Development of self-evaluation tools would be beneficial, and can be included in the resource file.

Technical Quality

Look for adeptness with materials, tools, and techniques of presentation.

 

Appendix D

Direct/Indirect/Independent/Interactive teaching strategies

A variety of teaching strategies should be used to address different learning styles of students.

 

DIRECT TEACHING STRATEGIES:

This refers to direct instructional teaching strategies used by teacher to deliver curriculum. These startegies may include:

demonstrations

drills/practice

lecture

guest speaker

guided reading

guided writing

work sheets

film/video

questioning

 

INDIRECT TEACHING STRATEGIES:

The teacher can facilitate student learning, but not be actively involved in delivering content to students. These startegies may include:

     debates

     experiments

     field trips

     interviews

     oral presentations

     oral discussions

     role play

     learning centres

     panel discussions

 

INDEPENDENT LEARNING STRATEGIES:

Students sometimes need time to work, problem solve and learn and think on their own. These strategies may include:

     assigned questions

     assigned assignments

     computer activities

     homework

     written responses

     essays

     reports

     research questions

 

 

INTERACTIVE TEACHING STRATEGIES:

Students learn from working with others. These strategies may include:

     brainstorming

     mind maps

     jigsaw

     round robin

     Think-Pair-Share

     other co-operative learning

      strategies

 

 

Appendix E

Assessment and Evaluation Strategies

A variety of assessment and evaluation strategies should be used to meet the needs of all students.  The assessment and evaluation tools used should match the approaches used in the curriculum to assess and evaluate targets set in the expectations.  Rubrics for assessment and evaluation are in the policy documents.

anecdotal records

teacher log

checklists

performance charts

demonstrations

presentations

independent study projects

interviews

feed back sheets

conferencing

    paper and pencil

              tests/quizzes/exams

peer evaluation

performance assessments

portfolio content

portfolio interview

self evaluation

seminars

written material

oral presentations

journals

rubrics-process

rubrics-product

resource file

work sheets

critiques

 

 

WHO SHOULD ASSESS?

Self-Assessment – personal reflection

Peer-Assessment – peers develop their ability to identify strengths and weaknesses

Teacher-Assessment – formative to identify student strengths; summative for accountability

 

Appendix F

Looking at Art: Critical Thinking

Strategies to Organize Looking at Art . . .

Often students need gentle prompting when being asked to respond to works of art.  Frequently key words or phrases will be enough to instigate a comment or observation.

 

Retelling, Relating, Reflecting

Retell

Tell what you see by pointing out the different parts of the work - shapes, colours, lines, textures, people, buildings, etc.  The student should properly identify these items with words or phrases.

     I notice . . .

     In this art work . . .

     The thing that catches my attention is . . .

 

Relate

Get them to talk about how the art work connects to their own experiences, stories, feelings, people they know.

     It makes me think of . . .

     This painting makes me feel . . .

     This compares to . . .

 

Reflect

Ask questions about the work.  Think about other possibilities or extensions.  Make insights, inferences, predictions. Evaluate.

     I wonder how . . ?

     Why did the artist . . .?

     What would happen if . . . ?

based on Susan Swartz and Maxine Bone, Retelling, Relating, Reflecting: Beyond the 3 R’s. (1990)

 

Learning to Think by Looking at Art

Slow Looking Down . . .

Force students to look for 3 - 5 minutes (depending on the age and maturity level).  Let your eyes lead you through the artwork.  Let questions emerge.  Let what you know, inform your looking.  Tell yourself when you notice interesting or puzzling things.  As the flow stops, look away for a few seconds and then look back with fresh eyes.

Looking For . . .

Expand your perceptions.  What’s going on here?  Look for surprises – big ones and smaller ones.  Does the artist have a message?  What kind of movement do you see?  Where and when does it take place?  What cultural connections do you see?  What positive space and negative space do you see?  How has the artist used colour and line?  Which things are big and which are small in scale?  What looks like it would be difficult or challenging to paint, draw, sculpt, etc.?

Focusing In . . .

Look more deeply.  Go back to find something that puzzles you.  What is most interesting?  What if you changed a colour, material, or removed an object?  How does the artist make some parts of the work support other parts?  Try to find a dominant part of a composition with support by evidence and conclusions about the work.

based on David N. Perkins, The Intelligent Eye: Learning to Think by Looking at Art. (1994)

 

Appendix G

Looking at Art: Critical Thinking

 

VISUAL RESPONSE FORMAT - VIEWING ART

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION RESOURCE GUIDE

 

INITIAL RESPONSE:

 

What are the first five words that first come to mind when you look at a specific art work?

 

ANALYSIS:

 

Have students examine the work.

What did the artist do to make you respond this way?

What do you see in the work that made you think of that word? colour? texture? image?

     How did the artist make you think this way? (Encourage students to think about culture, time, context, composition, content, symbols, images, elements of design.)

What did the artist leave out of the work that makes you respond the way you do?

What are the important decisions that the artist may have made in creating this work?

What else contributes?

     What information can be gathered from the work itself? (Encourage students to think about media, subject, style,and symbols.)

What questions arise from looking at this work?

 

INFORMATION:

 

Provide a brief biography of the artist.

Give some comparisons of artists with different or similar styles, themes, subject matters or ideas.

Have students research relevant information, or related works.

 

PERSONALIZATION:

 

How does the work change you?

What do you bring to this work that another viewer may not?

What is more important, the subject, or the artist’s view of the subject?

Why might this work have been made?

How does this relate to work that you have done yourself?

Has your response changed due to looking more closely?

What more would you like to know to understand the work better?

 

EXTENSIONS:

 

     Extend the historical, theoretical and appreciative components for the classroom into practical studio activities.

     See Annie Smith with Francena Hancock, Getting Into Art History, (Toronto: Barn Press, 1993). ISBN: 96969953-0-6

 

 

Appendix H

Looking at Art: Critical Thinking Activities

 

Ping Pong

Present students with two sets of paired images.  Try to secure a variety of art forms, e.g. paintings, sculpture, chairs, still life, architecture, photographs.  Select images which have some similarity in terms of subject matter, design or theme.  (Later, they can be completely unrelated for a challenge.) Use between six and seven pairs.  Explain the procedures simply: ask students to decide which image is PING and which is PONG.  Do not define these terms.  Allow students to define their own criteria for these two nonsensical words.  Keep repeating the word throughout the exercise.  They can record answers on a sheet of paper divided into two columns, one for PING and one for PONG.  Follow up by reviewing the images and discussing the many reasons why particular students made certain choices.  The responses will be varied.  Encourage elaboration of responses and prompt incomplete statements.  Their answers must be based on their direct observation of the paired images.  Keep in mind the criteria for selecting “pingness” and “pongness” do not have to be the same throughout the exercise.  A different criterion might be used for each pair.

Finally, debrief by asking them why they did the exercise.  Answer?  Each person can have a different interpretation and everyone will be right, as long as visual support comes from the images before them.

 

Picture Round Robin

Have enough reproductions for each student in your class (i.e. postcards).  Place them around on the desks throughout the room (make sure that any factual information is covered up).  Beside each image place a piece of paper.  Students should write number 1 at the top of the margin.  Ask students a question about their image (see questions below).  Give students a minute or so to write their answer on the paper.  Stress careful observation.  Once everyone is done, have the students fold their paper back so that their answer is no longer visible and move to the next image.  Repeat process until all questions are answered and everyone has moved around the room.  Timing and numbers of questions will depend on the students.  Students return to their starting point and read the accumulated statements about their image.  Complete a full description of that image using the compiled information OR create a poem using some or all of the words and phrases.  Have the students do further research about this image.  Devise other questions that could be asked.  Have the students paint a picture or do a drawing as a response to this image and its generated ideas.

 

The Questions

1.         Write down one word that describes the feeling that this image creates in you. 

2.         Write down four descriptive words about this picture. 

3.         What is the dominant or most important colour? 

4.         What thing stands out or is most important in this picture?

5.         What is least important?

6.         Which of the art elements is strongest in this image: line, shape, colour, value or texture?

7.         Does it tell a story?  If it does, explain the action in two or three short sentences.

8.         If you could place yourself in this picture describe where you would be. 

9.         If you were the artist, what might you like to change about this work of art? 

10.        Finish this sentence: This picture reminds me of ...... 

11.        If you were the artist, what might you like to change about this work of art? 

12.        What might happen after the image that you are looking at ? 

13.        Give this image a title of your choice.

 

 

Pictures That Come to Life

Students in small groups select an image or slide reproduction.  They talk about the image in order to determine what is happening and what it is all about.  What are the relationships among the people, animals or objects?  What is the mood?  Have the students use some of the art inquiry questions to instigate discussion.  (A narrative, history, or genre subject will work best)

Next, the group improvises dialogue for the people represented in the work of art.  They can essentially write a brief script.  This improvisation can also be tape recorded.  Refine the dialogue and role that each student will play.  The group can choose suitable background music or sound effects to accompany their dialogue.  In a final presentation, the image can be displayed  prominently on an easel or projected onto a screen or wall.  The picture will appear to come to life right before your eyes.

 

In the Mood

Print words that represent various feelings and emotions, e.g., thrilling, sad, angry, jealous, joyful, on recipe cards.  Allow students to select postcards or large reproductions and ask them to attach an emotion card to each reproduction.  Ask the following questions as you and the class examine people’s choices:

     Why does this image/object suggest that particular emotion or feeling?

     Why do different people see different emotions in the same image?

     How do these emotions contribute to the meaning of the image?

 

Matchmakers

Pairs of students are given a card with an adjective, noun, verb or adverb on it.  Ask each pair to find a work of art that they believe somehow matches their word.  Discuss the choices.  Alter this by having them select a work of art that is opposite to their word.

 

Interviews with Famous Canadian Artists

Pairs of students first select and research a Canadian artist, historical or contemporary, and an art work by that person. Students devise responses to the interviewer’s questions based on their understanding and research of the artwork.  Then one student assumes the role of the artist, while the other plays an interviewer.  Costumes and props may be used to enhance the final presentation.

Interview Questions:

     Describe your work of art for us and tell us its title.

     Where did you get the idea or inspiration for this work?

     Describe your way of working and your style as presented in this painting.

     What art element or design principle is most important in this work?

     What particular reaction or emotion would you like the viewers to experience?

     How have you achieved this emotional reaction?

     Why did you create this work?

 

Categories

Students examine a pile of randomly distributed postcards of artworks.  After examining all the images, they must group them into categories (example categories could be style, subject matter, shapes).  Students must decide on the criteria for each category and be prepared to explain their decisions later.  Variation: Tell students that they can have only two or three categories and all the images must fit into one or the other.

 

How Good is Your Memory?

Have each pair of students choose two images that they like from a larger pile.  Once selected, give everyone three minutes to study their two images closely.  Examine details and the larger image.  One partner (number 1) chooses one of the images and hides the postcard from the partner (number 2).  Partner number 1 must try to challenge partner number 2 by asking a question about this image that they might not be able to answer.  Switch and try again.  Discuss why certain things were easy to recall, and why others were more difficult.

 

Sound tracking

As a small group, select a painting, print, sculpture or installation.  Use realistic or stylized sounds to accompany the action depicted  in the chosen art work.  Try this with realistic and/or abstract art works.  Script and record a dialogue to fit the art work.  If available, instruments could be used to underscore mood and setting.  Perform the score.  Could it be later be transposed into some form of musical notation?  See the scores of R. Murray Shafer for inspiration.

 

Dear Theo

Have students locate two artists who were alive at the same time.  This could be done in pairs, or by dividing the whole class into two groups.  Each member of the pair chooses a different artist.  Write a letter from one artist to the other, inquiring about one of their works.  They could ask questions about style, medium, subject matter, etc.  Use postcards to send replies to each other.  Students can make or bring in a post card for this.  Variation: Write letters between two artists from different periods in history.

 

Find other ideas in:              Smith, Annie with Francena Hancock.  Getting Into Art History.  (Toronto: Barn Press,

                                  1993) ISBN: 96969953-0-6

 

 

Appendix I

Special Needs/Activity Modifications

 

Guidelines for individual modifications in Visual Arts

     Refer to a student’s Individual Educational Plan for specific suggestions on individual     modifications.

     Exceptional students should be integrated into regular classroom activities.

     Gifted students may require enrichment activities.

     Use a student buddy system in your classroom to help check for understanding.

     Use a variety of teaching strategies so that all student learning styles can be addressed .

     Modify test times, the type of test given, due dates, assignment complexity, work quantity, and
    questions.

     Use oral as opposed to written instructions.

     Discuss modifications with support staff.

     Modify expectations where necessary .

     The report card must have indication that the student is working in a modified environment.

     Most students requiring modified programs, have already been identified by grade 9 - inquire with
    support staff if you have a concern; check a student’s OSR for clarification.

     Be positive.  Many students with mild cognitive learning difficulties do well in art.

     Monitor organizational assistance for students as they set up and begin studio work.

     Use simple instructional language and visually demonstrate vocabulary and concepts.

     Use videos to visually introduce ideas when possible.

     Break tasks into sub-tasks.  Create pictorial charts or individual work sheets for assignment
    sequencing.

     Group work should be heterogeneous.

     Plan motivational experiences that are tactile or that connect with a larger community     environment.

     Model self-questioning talk  for students during demonstrations.

     Review ideas at the end of each class.

Some ideas from Issues and Approaches to Art Students with Special Needs, Andra L. Nyman and Anne M. Jenkins, Editors, (Reston, V.A.: National Art Education Association, 1999), p.22-23

 

 

Appendix J

Looking at Art: Critical Thinking (Feldman)

Strategies to Organize Looking at Art...

 

The following methods and approaches are presented in order to help students during their interactions with works of art.  Many of these will assist with looking and thinking; actions that are inextricably linked and ultimately lead to understanding.

 

Feldman’s Method of Critical Inquiry

 Describe

 

“What do I see?”  [Taking an inventory of the visual evidence in the artwork.]  At this stage, students should be asked for initial reactions to the work of art in question.  These will be personalized and generally, but not exclusively, superficial and subjective.  Have them identify essential information such as title, medium, artist’s name, subject matter, date of creation, size and location.  At this point, students should be encouraged to objectively describe all visual information before them.  They should stick to visual “facts” and avoid expressing opinions or making conjectures suggested by symbols or clues.  The evident art elements (colour, line, shape. etc.) should be noted.  Qualifying words can also be used to more accurately describe what is seen, e.g. “The artist has painted fluffy, fat clouds.” or “A figure in the back is thin, stooped, and heavy-headed.”  This final task will allow students to develop their use of adjectives.

Interpret

 

“What is happening?” & “What is the artist trying to say?” [Discovering the purpose or meaning of the artwork.]  This is probably the most important part of the critical inquiry process, but also the most creative and thought-provoking part for the students.  They should be challenged to find meaning in the work through observations and analysis, but sometimes other relevant information is necessary in order to make an informed interpretation.  Students can be encouraged to do research in order to find out about the artist or the times when the work was originally created.  This provides a context for the art work, and simulates the kind of inquiry that art historians practice.  Interpretations should be rich and meaningful, as much as possible.  Interpretations are not really “right” or “wrong”, but can be more or less insightful, apt, interesting, informative and reasonable

Analyze

 

“How is the work organized?”  [Discovering relationships among the separate parts of the artwork.]  Analysis is a continuation of description, but instead of talking about separate parts, the focus shifts to the way the parts work together.  Here students should consider how the artist/designer has made use of the principles of design (rhythm, balance, emphasis, contrast, unity, etc.).  “A good way to begin analysis is to direct the students’ attention to the pervasive or dominant qualities of the work.  These are the large, overall feeling qualities, mood, and characteristics.”  Again, using qualitative words, students might observe the following kinds of pervasive qualities: “The overall mood is a feeling of heavy sadness.”  Generally, the mood is bright and cheerful.”

Judge/Evaluate

 

“What do I think of the work?”  [Judging the quality or success of the artwork.]  Students are asked to make a judgment about value or significance.  These judgments or evaluations should be based on the accumulated information from the previous stages of critical inquiry, namely description, analysis and interpretation. Sometimes other reasons for decisions need to be introduced in order to help students ground their judgments in specific criteria.  Imitation of appearances, or pleasing organization of form, or vivid expression of emotions or ideas can all be considered as valid criteria for making evaluations.

 

Appendix K

Looking at Art: 20 Questions of Art Criticism

 

The Language of Art

(“20 Questions” of ART CRITICISM)

 

Description (Taking an inventory of the visual evidence in the artwork.)

1.         Write down three questions that immediately come into your mind as you look at this artwork.  (Afterwards, think about how you would go about finding answers to these questions.)

2.         Give the full name and nationality of the artist. What is the title of the work?

            Give the date the work was made or completed. What are its dimensions?

            In which museum or gallery can this work be found? (Where should you look for this specific             information?)

3.         What medium and/or technique is used by this artist?

4.         Can you identify the subject matter of this artwork? (still life, landscape, figure, portrait,             genre, narrative/history, abstraction, fantasy, allegory/symbolism)  Now, accurately describe             what you see in the subject matter using specific language.  Write about “the facts” that you             observe directly.  No opinions.

5.         Which elements of design are most important in this artwork?  (line, shape/form, texture,             colour, value) Describe where these are located and how they appear.  (Use descriptive             words/adjectives.)

 

Analysis (Discovering relationships among the separate parts of the artwork.)

6.         What appears to be the focal point or area of emphasis in this artwork?

            How is it made so important?  Is contrast present?

7.         Can you find a place where the artist/designer has used some type of rhythm in this artwork?

8.         How has the artist/designer created a sense of balance in this work?  What parts of the work             contribute to this balance? Is this an example of symmetrical or asymmetrical balance?

9.         How has the artist/designer used colour to create unity in this work?  Remember your colour             theory.

 

Interpretation (Discovering the purpose or meaning of the artwork.)

10.        What specific emotions or feeling does this work arouse in the viewer?

11.        What is the subject matter?  Does it represent something else? What is this work “about”?

12.        How does the title of this work add to its meaning?

13.        Why was this artwork created? What purpose does it serve?

14.        Who was/is the intended audience? Was it created for a particular group or individual?

15.        Does this work appear to belong to a particular period in history or a specific art style?

16.        How does this artwork connect with our present society or culture? Does this artwork “speak” to

            you?

 

Evaluation (Judging the quality or relative value of the artwork.)

17.        What do you admire about this artwork? What are your reasons? (Look back at some of the             things that you have already said.)

18.        Do you think this artist has been successful in communicating something to the viewer? Why             or why not?

19.        Which of the following statements best fits your reason for evaluating this artwork as you             have?

            It is accurate and honest in the way it imitates real life.

            It encourages strong emotions or feelings in the viewer.

            It is visually well organized and has an exciting design.

            It says something about our society, beliefs or concerns.

            It presents the beauty and visual appeal of the subject.

20.        How would you rate this particular artwork? Other reasons?

            Poor                             Mediocre                      Good                Exceptional

 

Appendix L

14 Questions for Looking at an Object - Unit 1, Activity 1

 

1.         Overall appearance:  Examine the object from various angles.  How do I react to it?

 

2.         Form: Record  measurements, weights and proportions.  Is there evidence of any repair or alteration?

 

3.         Ornament:  For any ornamentation, ask: Why is it there?  Does it appear to accomplish its purpose?  Is the overall effect the better for its presence?

 

4.         Colour:  Does it appear to be original, or has it been changed over time?

 

5.         Analysis of materials:  Gather and assess information about the individual materials: e.g. wood, metal fabric.  Use any instruments needed, for example, magnifying glass, camera, microscope, ruler.  What is the object made from?

 

6.         Techniques:  What techniques were used  to construct the object?  Inspect the object for clues.

 

7.         Trade Practices:  Do any brand names, symbols, dates or identifying marks exist on the object? Do these help to date or give a location of origin for the object?

 

8.         Function:  Why was the object made?  What were the limiting conditions imposed by materials, techniques, and skills?  What was the intent of the maker?  Can the object have adequately performed the use for which it was designed?  Does the evidence of wear occur where one would expect if the object had been used as designed?

 

9.         Style:  Does the object have characteristics of a certain period, movement in art, technology or society?

 

10.        Date:  When was the object made?  Appearance, form and knowledge of its evolution, ornament, and style all play important parts in arriving at an approximate date.  Look for any stamp, signature or other mark.

 

11.        Attribution:  Who made this object?  How do you know?  Are you sure?  In the case of an author’s signature ask: What proof is there that this name or initials are authentic?  Can you ascribe the work to a known artist on the basis of style if there is no signature or mark?

 

12.        History:  What do you know about the ownership of this object?  Is there any information about the object that is documented through sales records, exhibition catalogues or family histories?

 

13.        Condition:  Is there evidence of natural aging and wear such as colouration, patina, softening of the edges, corners and contours?  Have repairs been made?

 

14.        Appraisal or Evaluation:  What is the value of the object?  What criteria will this object be valued by?

 

Appendix M                                                                       

Sample Assessment Tool - Unit 1

 

Teacher’s Evaluation - Grotesque Goblet - Ceramics

Rate appropriate level of achievement under each criteria.

 

Quality of Design for Container

[  ] 4.    Exceptional quality in preliminary container designs; extensive variety of 3D forms.

[  ] 3.    Proficient quality in preliminary container designs; substantial variety of 3D forms.

[  ] 2.    Adequate quality in preliminary container designs; reasonable variety of 3D forms.

[  ] 1.    Poor quality in preliminary container designs; limited variety of 3D forms.

 

Degree of Sculptural Detail Used to Disguise Container

[  ] 4.    High degree of sculptural detail; extensive use of pattern or textures; decoration on most
       surfaces.

[  ] 3.    Appropriate degree of sculptural detail; some use of pattern or texture; decoration on some
        surfaces.

[  ] 2.    Acceptable degree of sculptural detail; pattern, texture and decoration used in obvious places.

[  ] 1.    Low degree of sculptural detail used to disguise the container; no planned textures or
        decoration.

 

Degree of Originality and Imagination

[  ] 4.    Exceptional degree or originality and imagination; design shows complexity, risk-taking and
          wit.

[  ] 3.    Proficient degree of originality and imagination; regard for detail, experimentation and
          humour.

[  ] 2.    Satisfactory degree of originality and imagination; design is complete, but little
          experimentation.

[  ] 1.    Limited degree of originality and imagination; incomplete and ordinary.

 

Use of Ceramic Construction Techniques

[  ] 4.    Superior use of ceramic technique; careful joining, even coils/slabs, appropriate handling of
           clay.

[  ] 3.    Good use of ceramic technique; proper joining, consistent coils/slabs, satisfactory handling of
           clay.

[  ] 2.    Adequate use of ceramic technique; inconsistent coils/slabs, careless handling of clay.

[  ] 1.    Poor use of ceramic technique; pieces separated, haphazard slabs/coils, irresponsible use of
           clay.

 

Use of Time, Commitment & Organization

[  ] 4.    Efficient use of class time; strong commitment, well organized and prepared for work.

[  ] 3.    Most class time used effectively; reasonable commitment, usually organized and prepared for work.

[  ] 2.    Studio time not always used productively; motivation and commitment lacking. Needs direction.

[  ] 1.    Class time often wasted.  Poor concentration and lack of self-discipline.

 

Mark = _____

          20

 

Appendix N

Evaluation Rubric for Unit 2, Activity #4

CRITERIA

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 4

understanding of concepts: Quality of Cultural Symbols

demonstrates limited understanding of concepts; cultural symbols are simplistic and stereotypes

demonstrates some understanding of concepts; cultural symbols are somewhat unique.

demonstrates considerable understanding of concepts; cultural symbols show substantial uniqueness & thought

demonstrates thorough and insightful understanding of concepts; cultural symbols are highly original & complex.

Understanding of Concepts: Principles of Contrast & Rhythm

demonstrates limited understanding of concepts; contrast & rhythm are used with limited effectiveness

demonstrates some understanding of concepts; contrast & rhythm are used with moderate effectiveness

demonstrates considerable understanding of concepts; contrast & rhythm are used with considerable effectiveness

demonstrates thorough and insightful understanding of concepts; contrast & rhythm are used with high degree of effectiveness

Application of Creative Process

applies the creative process with limited effectiveness; planning is tentative or non-existent

applies the creative process with some effectiveness; planning is evident & shows some divergent thinking

applies the creative process with considerable effectiveness; planning is substantial & shows alternative ideas

applies the creative process with a high degree of effectiveness; planning is exceptional & shows considerable flexibility in thinking

Use of Equipment, Materials & Technology: Printmaking Technique

carving of relief plate is haphazard and incomplete; prints are inconsistent in quality

carving of relief plate is reasonably effective; prints are somewhat consistent, with only minor flaws

carving of relief plate is accurate & complete; prints are consistent

carving of relief plate is highly detailed & complete; prints are consistent

Making Connections

makes connections with limited effectiveness; little participation in group art-making

makes connections with moderate effectiveness; some participation in group art-making

makes connections with considerable effectiveness; reasonable participation in group art-making

makes connections with high degree of effectiveness; exceptional participation in group art-making

Quality of Self-Evaluation

demonstrates limited reflection and superficial response

demonstrates moderate reflection and considered response

demonstrates considerable reflection and articulate response

demonstrates insightful reflection and highly articulate response

 

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