Middle School Visual Arts Curriculum

Middle School Visual Arts: Exploration & Expression

Welcome to the Middle School Visual Arts program! Our curriculum is designed to transition students from foundational art concepts to more complex applications of design, observation, and self-expression. Through a blend of independent study and cooperative learning, students develop not just artistic skills but the confidence to interpret the world around them.

Course Philosophy & Environment

Our classroom is built on three pillars: Safe, Respectful, and Responsible. We strive to create an environment where students feel comfortable taking creative risks. Whether working independently or collaborating with peers, students learn to treat materials, artwork, and each other with respect.

Core Curriculum: Elements & Principles

The middle school scope and sequence centers on mastering the Elements of Art, with a special emphasis on the Principles of Design: Contrast and Repetition.

Students will engage in deep exploration of the following concepts:

• Space: Using size and scale to compare visual concepts of near and far (creating depth).
• Line: Utilizing varied lines to generate interest both inside and outside of shapes.
• Shape: Composing with geometric and organic shapes.
• Color: Applying color theory through value studies and guided instruction.
• Texture: Using lines, edges, and mixed materials to create implied texture.
• Form: Mastering rendering techniques (shading and highlights) to imply 3D form on a 2D surface.
• Scale: Using comparison to establish visual order.

The Studio Experience

Students will move beyond simple crafting to true artistic investigation. The course emphasizes the difference between 2-Dimensional (drawing, painting) and 3-Dimensional (sculpture, relief) work.

What Students Will Create:

• Direct Observation: Sketching landscapes and still lifes, utilizing horizon lines and spatial awareness.
• Composition & Collage: Combining material exploration with the principles of contrast and repetition.
• Mixed Media: Investigating new techniques using watercolor, charcoal, acrylics, pastels, scratch art, printmaking inks, and clay/Model Magic.
• Art History & Analysis: Connecting their work to historical and contemporary artists, and using written and oral skills to discuss their creative process.

Standards of Learning (Grades 5–6)

Our curriculum aligns with Visual Arts Standards, focusing on the creative process and professional presentation:

1. Creating

• Generate: Integrate innovative ideas with new materials and methods. (5-6.V.Cr.01)
• Plan: Use sketches, prototypes, and rough drafts to organize artistic concepts. (5-6.V.Cr.02)
• Refine: Investigate new techniques and make intentional changes to elements like color, form, or space to improve the work. (5-6.V.Cr.03)

2. Presenting

• Analyze: Select specific works for presentation and interpret their meaning. (5-6.V.P.04)
• Develop: Create visual plans for display, including developing titles and curating information about the artwork. (5-6.V.P.05)

Skills Beyond the Classroom

While we focus on technique, the ultimate goal is to foster skills that extend beyond the art room. By the end of the year, students will have improved their creative problem-solving, self-confidence, and ability to express themselves through both visual media and the written word.