aidemia--modules-lessonplan_request	Titles of parts of the lesson must be formatted as headings
What to create	Lesson plan
Which subject	Art
What topic	Portraits
What length (min)	30
What age group	Year or Grade 11
Include homework
Include images descriptions
Any other preferences

Lesson Plan: Portraits in Art

Subject: Art

Grade: 11

Duration: 30 minutes

Topic: Portraits

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Understand the historical and contemporary significance of portraiture in art.
2. Identify different styles and techniques used in portrait painting.
3. Create a preliminary sketch of a portrait using various mediums.

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Materials Needed

• Sketchbooks or drawing paper
• Pencils and erasers
• Charcoal and coloured pencils
• Reference images of portraits (printed or digital)
• Access to art supplies (optional: paints, markers)

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Introduction (5 minutes)

Begin the lesson with a brief discussion about portraits. Ask students the following questions:

• What do you think characterises a portrait?
• Can you name any famous portrait artists or notable works?
  Share a few examples of iconic portraits, such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits.

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Historical Context of Portraiture (10 minutes)

Discuss the evolution of portraiture through art history, emphasising key eras:

• Renaissance: Focus on realism, individualism, and the human experience.
• Baroque: Use of dramatic lighting and emotion.
• Modern: Abstract and expressionistic interpretations.

Highlight how portraiture reflects societal values and histories, leading to its significance today.

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Techniques and Styles (5 minutes)

Present various techniques used in portraiture:

• Realism: Capturing exact likeness and detail.
• Impressionism: Focus on light and colour.
• Cubism: Deconstruction of form and perspective.

Display examples on the board or via a projector. Discuss how each technique influences the perception of the subject.

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Practical Activity (10 minutes)

Instruction

• Instruct students to select their preferred technique/style.
• Using the provided materials, have students create their preliminary portrait sketch based on a chosen reference image or a self-portrait.
• Remind them to consider the elements discussed in class, such as composition and expression.

Student Engagement

Walk around the classroom, offer assistance, and encourage creativity. Highlight the importance of experimentation and self-expression.

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Conclusion (5 minutes)

Bring the lesson to a close by having a few students share their sketches with the class. Facilitate a group discussion on their experience, choices in technique, and what they learned about portraiture.

Encourage students to reflect on the stories portraits tell and how they connect to personal or cultural identity.

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Homework (optional)

Ask students to research a portrait artist of their choice and prepare a short presentation on their style and techniques used in one significant piece. This will be discussed in the next lesson.

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Assessment

Students will be assessed based on:

• Participation in class discussion.
• Creativity and effort in the practical activity.
• Understanding of techniques through their sketch and final presentation in the following lesson.

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By engaging with the topic of portraits in art, students will gain a deeper appreciation for both historical and contemporary practices, enhancing their artistic skills and understanding of cultural narratives.