Art Speaks- Visual Communication

Students defined "artistic intentions," as what a piece of art is intended to be about. They looked at famous examples, analyzing what the art could mean, using supporting evidence from the art to support their ideas. They read biographical excerpts about the artists, and then discussed how their art relates to social issues and personal stories.

Then, children drew sketches to narrate their own stories. The chose one image to focus on for their final product, first drawing in pencil. They chose the best fitting mediums to add color (marker, color pencil, chalk pastel, oil pastel, crayon). They wrote to reflect what their art means to them. Rubrics were used to self evaluate effectiveness of communicating ideas visually.

Drawings (below) were made by 5th grade students.

Art History, Prior to Drawing:

Rubric for self evaluation:

Self reflection guidelines:

This lesson was originally written to teach the following standardized skills:

Colorado State Visual Arts Standard 2- Envision and Critique to Reflect

2nd Grade Level Expectation 1. Share and explain choices made and possible next steps in personal works of visual art and design.

2nd Grade Evidence Outcome C- Use the language of visual art and design to describe observations and form opinions.

3rd Grade:

4th Grade Concept and Skill 2.2- Processes and philosophies of art and design inform interpretations of art.

4th Grade Evidence Outcome 2.2.d- Students can discuss and form opinions about social and personal value of art.

5thGrade Concept and Skill 2.1- Evaluative criteria is used to respond to art.

5th Grade Evidence Outcome 2.1.b- Students can address intended meaning and its effectiveness in multiple works of art (DOK 1-3)