Hi!
We’re already into the second half of September. The first few weeks of the semester are behind us and the period of “get-to-know-you” has transformed into “let’s-see-what-you-can-do.” In both art classes and the English class, I feel lucky in the sense that my students (for the most part) are enthusiastic about showing me what they can do – as well as showing a willingness to learn more. For those who aren’t quite at that stage, it’s my job to try and engage, motivate, and push. So far, so good. My goal is to allow students to express who they are, both through art and writing.
In ALC1O – Grade 9 Visual Art students pushed their thinking to complete two designs in the past two weeks. The first had them create a design that used the elements of art as a way to express their emotions. I also wanted students to get accustomed to their art studio surroundings and show me that they could be responsible with materials. The mission was successful.
This week, we’re going to continue the idea of self-expression by creating plaster masks. To make this a successful project, students have to work with a partner, get a bit messy, do some planning, and then some designing. We started the process today with one person being the “model” and the second person being the “artist.” The roles will switch and then, with base masks ready, students will go into the design stage.
Check out the engagement, the smiles, the teamwork, and the awesome results:
Stay tuned for updates. I love this project!
In ENG2D – Grade 10 Academic English, we are focusing our efforts on essay skills – with a focus on argumentative essays. I want to ensure students have a clear understanding of expectations, success criteria, exemplars, and the writing process so that they will struggle (hopefully!) less with essays for the rest of their time in high school. To date, students have:
- Developed an understanding of topic and thesis
- Been able to conference and discuss topics and thesis statements under the framework of an essay outline
- Been given the first major essay assignment
This process will take the rest of the week, because I want to give sufficient time for conferencing and feedback. Then, these folks will be on their own.
Finally, in AVI3O – Grade 11 Visual Arts, we finished an introductory acrylic painting assignment. Like the grade 9 class, the plan was to familiarize students with art studio expectations, some basic painting techniques, and the beginning of the creative process. This week, we’ll focus on some more technical aspects, starting with drawing techniques:
So there you have it… a busy third(1!) week. Enjoy it!