Curriculum Spotlight
On this page, you can explore how I design and implement dynamic visual arts curricula, and get a closer look at some of my favorite lessons. Click on the lesson titles to learn more about each one!
In this multi media lesson, students investigate how different materials interact with each other, with a special focus on oil-based vs. water-based media. Through guided exploration and hands-on experimentation, students observe what happens when these materials meet, compare their properties, and begin developing foundational vocabulary for talking about materials in visual art.
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Students also practice reflective thinking by describing what they notice, wonder, and feel during the process. In addition, the lesson establishes classroom routines for setting up, working, and cleaning up for a multi-session art project, helping students build independence and align with visual arts studio habits.
This introductory lesson is centered around increasing students’ confidence in art class and prompting them to start thinking about themselves as artists. I Am an Artist is the first lesson taught to all of my students. During this class, I introduce myself, the art room, and what it means to be an artist and to make art. Most importantly, I begin to establish a sketchbook practice with my students.
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The sketchbook is a vital tool in my art classroom. It allows me to observe student growth, serves as a confidence-building tool, and provides a space for students to comfortably explore ideas in a private, low pressure way. I find that giving students the first class to decorate their sketchbook and make it their own creates an immediate opportunity for self expression and relationship building on day one.