TEACHING ART IN THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
GRADES 10-12
Philosophy:
Creating visually pleasing two-dimensional or three-dimensional works
or art requires an understanding of the elements and principals of art. The
incorporation of art history and critical thinking enhance and extend the
understanding of visual arts and their creation.
Course Description:
This course develops a thorough understanding of the elements and
principles of art through the creation and presentation of art lessons for
elementary classrooms which include art history and critical thinking activities.
Students will visit elementary schools in the district and team-teach selected art
lessons on a regular basis as well as budget for supplies. This course is excellent
for students who are considering teaching as a career, enjoy working with
children, or simply want to improve their communication/presentation skills.
Students will be transported to participating elementary schools by bus.
I.
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXTS
Students develop awareness of major art movements and artists through:
 9-12.VA.1.1.1 The identification of representative visual works of art from
a variety of cultures and historical periods.
 9-12.VA.1.1.3 Compare and contrast the historical, social, and
environmental contexts that influence artistic expression.
 9-12.VA.1.2.1 The comparison of art forms that share common
characteristics.
II.
CRITICAL THINKING
Students will understand how to critique their own work and the work of
others through:
 9-12.VA.2.1.2 The construction of meaning and support through welldeveloped interpretations of works of art with evidence.
 9-12.VA.2.1.3 The critique of works of art employing appropriate arts
vocabulary.
 9-12.VA.2.1.5 Analysis of an artist’s use of elements, principles, and how
they contribute to one’s interpretation of the artwork.
 9-12.VA.2.2.6 Writing of artist’s statements that describe a series of works.
III.
PERFORMANCE
Students will use a variety of art materials applying the elements and
principles of design, art history and critical thinking to create successful
lessons for elementary classrooms.

Media used (any of the following): colored pencil, pen and ink, collage,
printing materials, watercolor, pastels, and markers.
9-12.V.A.3.1.1 Select and apply media, techniques, and processes
effectively and with artistic intention.
9-12.V.A.3.1.2 Demonstrate safe and proper use, care, and storage of
media, materials, and equipment.
9-12.V.A.3.1.3 Demonstrate how the elements and principles can be used
to solve specific visual arts problems.

Assessment: Students will demonstrate competency applying the
elements and principles of design, knowledge of art history and critical
thinking skills in the design of lesson plans for elementary classrooms.
9-12.V.A.3.1.1 Select and apply media, techniques, and processes
effectively and with artistic intention.
9-12.V.A.3.1.2 Demonstrate how the elements and principles can be used
to solve specific visual arts problems.
a. Elements: line, value, shape, color, texture, form, and space
b. Principles: balance, emphasis, movement, unity, contrast, and
harmony.
IV.
VOCATIONAL
Students will identify the role of the arts in today’s society, including career
and avocation opportunities.
9-12.V.A.2.2.1 Identify the role of the arts in today's society, including career
and avocation opportunities.