Year 11 Art: Externally Set Task - Practice Lesson Plan
Introduction
In this lesson segment, titled "Practice," students will engage in a hands-on exploration to develop their artwork while applying the principles and concepts outlined in the Externally Set Task (EST). This active workshop will encourage creativity, experimentation, and decision-making, providing students with the opportunity to express their artistic vision.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Explore alternatives and experiment with various media and techniques.
- Develop a personal visual language by incorporating elements and principles of art.
- Source information and inspiration from selected artworks and artists.
- Conduct visual analysis and interpretation of their own and others’ artworks.
- Discuss the meaning and purpose behind artistic choices using appropriate terminology.
Lesson Structure
1. Warm-Up Activity (15 minutes)
Title: Visual Language Brainstorm
- Objective: Introduce and refresh students' understanding of visual language.
- Method:
- Divide students into small groups.
- Provide each group with a large piece of paper and a selection of art magazines.
- Instruct them to cut out images, words, and phrases that represent the elements and principles of art.
- After 10 minutes, each group will present their collage to the class, sparking a discussion about different visual strategies observed.
2. Exploration and Experimentation (40 minutes)
Title: Artistic Exploration Workshop
- Objective: Encourage students to experiment with different techniques and media.
- Method:
- Provide a variety of materials such as paints, pastels, clay, and mixed media supplies.
- Assign each student to choose one of the following focuses for their artwork based on the EST thematic topic:
- Nature and Environment
- Identity and Self
- Social Issues
- Allow students to experiment freely, creating preliminary sketches and drafts.
- Encourage explorations in texture, color, and form, asking them to reflect on how each decision communicates meaning.
3. Peer Feedback Session (20 minutes)
Title: Visual Dialogue
- Objective: Develop critical thinking and visual analysis skills.
- Method:
- Pair students and ask them to share their preliminary works.
- Instruct them to provide constructive feedback focusing on:
- The use of elements and principles of art
- How effectively the technique communicates the intended meaning.
- Encourage the use of art terminology and specific references to the visual language employed.
4. Reflection and Refinement (25 minutes)
Title: Refining the Artwork
- Objective: Students will apply feedback and consider visual influences to enhance their artwork.
- Method:
- Allow students time to revise their work, incorporating feedback and exploring additional influences.
- Invite them to research a relevant artist whose style or technique resonates with their own vision, discussing how this influence can shape their final piece.
5. Closing Discussion (10 minutes)
Title: Meaning and Purpose
- Objective: Consolidate learning and reflect on the purpose behind artistic choices.
- Method:
- Facilitate a class discussion where students can share:
- Their chosen technique and its purpose
- What they want to communicate through their artwork and why
- Encourage the use of art terminology and critical thinking to express their interpretations and opinions about their and peers' artworks.
Assessment Criteria
- Participation in group and peer feedback activities.
- Ability to explore and experiment with a range of techniques.
- Clarity in articulating the purpose and meaning of their artwork.
- Use of appropriate art terminology in discussions.
Materials Needed
- Art supplies (paints, pastels, paper, canvas, brushes)
- Art magazines
- Scissors and glue
- Large paper for the brainstorming activity
- Access to printed artworks or a digital projector for visual influences
Conclusion
This "Practice" lesson is designed to foster creativity and critical thinking in art-making by enabling Year 11 students to explore their ideas, seek inspiration, and refine their artistic expression. By engaging in collaborative and individual activities, students will deepen their understanding of visual languages and the interpretative aspects of art, all while preparing them for the Externally Set Task.