What art content is covered in my child's grade level?
Grade level art content is determined primarily by the Core Knowledge art sequence (see link above). The Core Knowledge art curriculum focuses on providing students with an opportunity to engage in the creative process and develop art-making skills using a variety of materials and techniques. Students at Jefferson Academy develop an understanding of the elements and principles of art as they create artwork using mediums such as pencil, ink, chalk and oil pastels, watercolor, clay, printmaking and textiles. Additionally, students are exposed to important artists and works of art throughout history within a number of different cultures. Classes are encouraged to analyze, discuss and reflect on the significance of these artistic contributions as well as their own creative works. Whenever possible, students' projects support or enrich grade-level Core Knowledge content.
What factors are considered when giving my child a grade in art?
A number of factors are considered when assessing students in art. Like other JA specials classes, a student's effort weighs most heavily when determining the child's grade. Consistent effort, a positive attitude and project completion assure students of a passing grade. Students also demonstrate their learning by incorporating newly taught skills or techniques into their projects as described on project rubrics. In intermediate level classes, completion of folder activities, quizzes and participation in class discussion provide additional avenues for students to show their understanding of grade level content. Students are also encouraged to reflect upon their craftsmanship and creativity as they engage in the artistic process. This year, the students and I will both complete a rubric for most projects. The objective of these rubrics is to clearly outline project goals for the intermediate students and also provides an opportunity for all students to reflect on and celebrate their art work. Students hoping to make top grades in art may also consider completing extra credit drawing exercises available in the art room.
How often will my student's artwork be on display?
I love to display and celebrate students' artwork! The frequency of display is largely determined by the lengthiness of your child's grade level projects. Often times, the primary level projects take less time to complete and are rotated more frequently. Intermediate level projects often require more preparatory instruction in art content and specific art techniques. Also, please keep in mind that students attend art every three days for a 40 minute session. More complicated projects may take a month or two to complete before they are assessed and hung. We make every effort to include as many student pieces as possible in our displays. However, due to the large number of students per grade level, very few of our display areas can accommodate 90-120 pieces. You can anticipate your child's artwork being displayed at least 2 to 3 times per year, with special attention given to art shows during music performances. A small number of exemplary pieces from each grade level will be selected for display at the Young At Heart and Jeffco Schools Foundation art shows. Parents will be notified of this special opportunity in late January or February once the date is set.
How many pieces of artwork should I anticipate my child completing this year?
As mentioned above, the Core Knowledge curriculum guides art instruction at each grade level. Intermediate grade levels have more in-depth content and technique to cover and may complete fewer projects overall. Every grade level will have the opportunity to complete art work emphasizing a number of different art mediums which may include the following: drawing with pencil and markers, painting with tempera, watercolor and/or acrylic, sculpting and glazing ceramics, printmaking, sewing, weaving and mixed media pieces.
Do I need to be an artist to volunteer in the art room?
Absolutely not! There are many ways you can assist in the art room. Many tasks involve preparation for upcoming projects such as cutting paper and do not require specific art skills. Many items can even be taken home to be completed at your convenience. However, if you do have specific art experience that you'd like to share, please let me know! For example, I had the privilege of having one JA mom, who is also a teacher at the Clifford Still Museum, assist with a number of projects a few years ago.
What is the best way to communicate with you if I have a question?
I am a strong advocate of open communication between parents, students and teachers. Please feel free to email with questions or to set a time to conference. There is a contact link above or email me at [email protected]. Thanks so much!!
Grade level art content is determined primarily by the Core Knowledge art sequence (see link above). The Core Knowledge art curriculum focuses on providing students with an opportunity to engage in the creative process and develop art-making skills using a variety of materials and techniques. Students at Jefferson Academy develop an understanding of the elements and principles of art as they create artwork using mediums such as pencil, ink, chalk and oil pastels, watercolor, clay, printmaking and textiles. Additionally, students are exposed to important artists and works of art throughout history within a number of different cultures. Classes are encouraged to analyze, discuss and reflect on the significance of these artistic contributions as well as their own creative works. Whenever possible, students' projects support or enrich grade-level Core Knowledge content.
What factors are considered when giving my child a grade in art?
A number of factors are considered when assessing students in art. Like other JA specials classes, a student's effort weighs most heavily when determining the child's grade. Consistent effort, a positive attitude and project completion assure students of a passing grade. Students also demonstrate their learning by incorporating newly taught skills or techniques into their projects as described on project rubrics. In intermediate level classes, completion of folder activities, quizzes and participation in class discussion provide additional avenues for students to show their understanding of grade level content. Students are also encouraged to reflect upon their craftsmanship and creativity as they engage in the artistic process. This year, the students and I will both complete a rubric for most projects. The objective of these rubrics is to clearly outline project goals for the intermediate students and also provides an opportunity for all students to reflect on and celebrate their art work. Students hoping to make top grades in art may also consider completing extra credit drawing exercises available in the art room.
How often will my student's artwork be on display?
I love to display and celebrate students' artwork! The frequency of display is largely determined by the lengthiness of your child's grade level projects. Often times, the primary level projects take less time to complete and are rotated more frequently. Intermediate level projects often require more preparatory instruction in art content and specific art techniques. Also, please keep in mind that students attend art every three days for a 40 minute session. More complicated projects may take a month or two to complete before they are assessed and hung. We make every effort to include as many student pieces as possible in our displays. However, due to the large number of students per grade level, very few of our display areas can accommodate 90-120 pieces. You can anticipate your child's artwork being displayed at least 2 to 3 times per year, with special attention given to art shows during music performances. A small number of exemplary pieces from each grade level will be selected for display at the Young At Heart and Jeffco Schools Foundation art shows. Parents will be notified of this special opportunity in late January or February once the date is set.
How many pieces of artwork should I anticipate my child completing this year?
As mentioned above, the Core Knowledge curriculum guides art instruction at each grade level. Intermediate grade levels have more in-depth content and technique to cover and may complete fewer projects overall. Every grade level will have the opportunity to complete art work emphasizing a number of different art mediums which may include the following: drawing with pencil and markers, painting with tempera, watercolor and/or acrylic, sculpting and glazing ceramics, printmaking, sewing, weaving and mixed media pieces.
Do I need to be an artist to volunteer in the art room?
Absolutely not! There are many ways you can assist in the art room. Many tasks involve preparation for upcoming projects such as cutting paper and do not require specific art skills. Many items can even be taken home to be completed at your convenience. However, if you do have specific art experience that you'd like to share, please let me know! For example, I had the privilege of having one JA mom, who is also a teacher at the Clifford Still Museum, assist with a number of projects a few years ago.
What is the best way to communicate with you if I have a question?
I am a strong advocate of open communication between parents, students and teachers. Please feel free to email with questions or to set a time to conference. There is a contact link above or email me at [email protected]. Thanks so much!!