| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | Art |
| What topic | Surrealism |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Year or Grade 7 |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Art
Surrealism
Year 7
30 minutes
20
This lesson corresponds with the Australian Curriculum: Visual Arts, focusing on exploring and expressing ideas through the arts using various techniques, processes, and materials.
| Step Number | Step Title | Length | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Surrealism | 5 minutes | Briefly introduce Surrealism: its history, key artists (e.g., Salvador Dalí, René Magritte), and characteristics. Use examples. |
| 2 | Homework Check | 5 minutes | Check homework assignments from the previous lesson. Collect homework without student presentations; review common elements in silent observation. |
| 3 | Discussion of Key Characteristics | 5 minutes | Discuss key features of Surrealist art. Encourage students to share thoughts on what they observe in the provided examples of artworks. |
| 4 | Distributing Printable Cards | 5 minutes | Hand out printable cards to each student. Explain that they will fill these in during the lesson with reflections and responses to Surrealist concepts. |
| 5 | Student Activity | 5 minutes | Engage students in an interactive art-making activity based on principles of Surrealism, using visual prompts or class resources. |
| 6 | Collecting/Checking Cards | 3 minutes | Invite students to submit their filled-in cards or conduct random checks; observe their responses and provide quick feedback. |
| 7 | Assigning Homework | 2 minutes | Assign homework related to the lesson content that encourages further exploration of Surrealism and personal interpretation. |
“Good morning, everyone! Today, we are diving into the fascinating world of Surrealism in art. Surrealism began in the early 20th century, and it’s all about exploring dreams, the unconscious mind, and the bizarre. We’ll look closely at some key artists, including the famous Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, and identify unique characteristics of their work.
Look at this first image. [Show a famous Surrealist artwork on the projector.] “What do you see? Can anyone tell me who the artist is?” [Encourage responses] “Yes, that’s right! It’s Salvador Dalí, known for his striking and dreamlike images. Today, we’ll explore what makes Surrealism so different and intriguing.”
“Before we fully dive into Surrealism, let’s take a moment to check yesterday’s homework. I’d like you to pass your assignments to the front, please. I won’t collect them for presentations today, but I’ll take a look and note any common themes or insights. [Walk around as students pass their homework]
“I’ll share some observations on what I noticed in your responses after I review them. Thank you for your hard work!”
“Now, let’s have a discussion! What do you think are some key characteristics of Surrealist art? [Encourage students to share their thoughts]
“Great ideas! Some characteristics we often see in Surrealism include unexpected juxtapositions, dream-like scenes, and bizarre imagery. [Show examples of artworks] “As you observe these pieces, think about how they make you feel. Do they remind you of dreams or nightmares?”
“Next, I’m handing out some printable cards. Each of you will receive one. These cards will be your reflections and responses to the ideas we explore today. [Distribute cards]
“On one side, please write down your thoughts on Surrealism or any images that come to mind when you think about it. On the other side, there will be prompts you’ll fill out later during our activities. Let’s make sure we’re all set to get creative!”
“Now, it’s time for some interactive fun! I’ve prepared some visual prompts related to Surrealism for you. [Show the prompts on the projector or distribute them]
“Using these prompts, I’d like each of you to create a surreal piece of art on your own. Be playful and let your imagination run wild! You’ll have about five minutes to sketch or draw something that captures the essence of what we’ve discussed. Remember: it doesn’t have to be realistic!”
“Time’s up, everyone! Please finish up your artwork and make sure your printable cards are filled out. I’ll collect them now. [Walk around and collect cards]
“I’ll take a quick look at these and give you some feedback as I gather them. When I’m done, I’ll share some of the thoughts I see across your reflections.”
“Before we wrap up, I have a homework assignment for you. I’d like you to choose a Surrealist artwork that you connect with or find interesting. Research the artist and the meaning behind the piece and prepare a short written response or a creative artwork based on your interpretation of Surrealism.
“This will allow you to explore further and find your personal connection to this amazing art movement. Please bring your responses in for our next class, and be ready to share!”
“Thank you all for your creativity today! I’m excited to see how you interpret Surrealism in your own way!”
What is Surrealism, and how did it emerge as an art movement in the early 20th century?
Identify two key artists associated with Surrealism and describe one characteristic of each of their works.
Describe three key characteristics of Surrealist art and provide examples of how these characteristics manifest in specific artworks.
Reflect on a Surrealist artwork you have chosen for your homework. What emotions or thoughts did it provoke in you?
Research the background of the artist whose work you selected. Include details such as their life, influences, and major contributions to the Surrealist movement.
Analyze the meaning behind the Surrealist artwork you chose. What do you think the artist was trying to convey, and how does this relate to the themes of dreams and the unconscious?
Create a short written response (1-2 paragraphs) or a creative piece of artwork that represents your personal interpretation of Surrealism. Explain your creative choices.
Discuss how your artwork or response connects to the broader themes and characteristics of Surrealism discussed in class.
Share an instance where you have encountered surreal elements in literature, film, or another form of art. How does it compare to Surrealist art?
In your own words, explain why you think Surrealism is still relevant or impactful in today's art world.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary focus of Surrealism in art? | |
| Can you name a famous Surrealist artist? | |
| How did Surrealism begin and in which century? | |
| What are some common characteristics of Surrealist art? | |
| How do unexpected juxtapositions contribute to the effect of Surrealist art? | |
| Can you describe a dream-like scene you've experienced? | |
| In what ways can surreal art evoke emotions related to dreams or nightmares? | |
| How does Salvador Dalí's work exemplify the characteristics of Surrealism? | |
| What was the purpose of the printable cards distributed in class? | |
| What kind of artwork will you create using the visual prompts provided? | |
| How should you approach your homework assignment on Surrealist art? | |
| Why is personal interpretation important when studying Surrealism? | |
| What did you learn about the connection between consciousness and art in Surrealism? | |
| How might Surrealism be relevant in today's society? | |
| How can you incorporate concepts of Surrealism into your future artworks? |