Course Plan: Art History for Grade 3
Course Goals and Aims
Course Goals
The primary goal of this Art History course is to introduce Grade 3 students to key concepts of art history, including the exploration of diverse cultures, artistic movements, and notable artists throughout time. By the end of the course, students will be able to recognize, appreciate, and articulate the significance of various artworks and their historical context.
Aims
- Understand Basic Art Terminology: Teach students essential vocabulary related to art and history.
- Explore Diverse Cultures: Introduce various cultures and their contributions to the world of art.
- Identify Key Artists and Movements: Familiarize students with significant artists and artistic movements that have shaped art history.
- Develop Critical Thinking and Observation Skills: Encourage students to analyze and discuss artworks.
- Encourage Creativity: Inspire students to create their own works of art based on what they learn each week.
Course Content Overview
Week 1: Introduction to Art History
- Lesson 1: What is Art?
- Discussion of different forms of art (visual, performance, etc.).
- Lesson 2: Why Study Art History?
- Explore reasons to learn about art and its impact on history and culture.
Week 2: Ancient Art
- Lesson 3: Art of Ancient Egypt
- Introduction to hieroglyphics and famous symbols.
- Lesson 4: Ancient Greek Sculpture
- Learn about famous sculptures and their significance.
Week 3: Art from Around the World
- Lesson 5: Native American Art
- Explore pottery and beadwork traditions.
- Lesson 6: African Art Forms
- Discuss masks and their meanings.
Week 4: The Middle Ages to Renaissance
- Lesson 7: The Middle Ages and Gothic Art
- Examine stained glass and cathedral architecture.
- Lesson 8: Introduction to the Renaissance
- Study famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci.
Week 5: Masterpieces and Artists
- Lesson 9: Mona Lisa and Its Secrets
- Learn about da Vinci and the mystery behind the painting.
- Lesson 10: Michelangelo and the Sistine Chapel
- Discover the story of Michelangelo’s artwork.
Week 6: Impressionism
- Lesson 11: What is Impressionism?
- Watch slides of famous Impressionist works.
- Lesson 12: Claude Monet and His Gardens
- Focus on Monet’s famous water lilies.
Week 7: Modern Art Movements
- Lesson 13: What is Modern Art?
- Discuss what differentiates modern art from traditional art.
- Lesson 14: Pablo Picasso and Cubism
- Explore Picasso's life and artwork.
Week 8: Contemporary Art
- Lesson 15: Understanding Contemporary Art
- Discuss the characteristics of contemporary art.
- Lesson 16: Famous Living Artists
- Explore several modern artists and their works.
Week 9: Art Techniques and Materials
- Lesson 17: Painting Techniques
- Focus on watercolors vs. acrylics.
- Lesson 18: Sculpture and 3D Art
- Introduction to various sculpting methods (clay, wood, etc.).
Week 10: Art and Culture
- Lesson 19: Art’s Role in Different Cultures
- Discuss how art reflects cultural values.
- Lesson 20: Festivals and Art
- Explore world festivals and their artistic contributions.
Week 11: Art Critique and Analysis
- Lesson 21: How to Observe Art
- Teach students how to look at and evaluate art.
- Lesson 22: Simple Art Critique
- Workshop where students practice sharing their thoughts about art.
Week 12: Creating Your Own Art
- Lesson 23: Inspiration from Art History
- Encourage students to create artwork inspired by styles studied.
- Lesson 24: Art Show Preparation
- Plan and prepare for a class art show.
Week 13: Art Around Us
- Lesson 25: Street Art and Murals
- Understand the role of street art in urban settings.
- Lesson 26: Art in Nature
- Explore nature’s impact on art and vice versa.
Week 14: Final Projects and Review
- Lesson 27: Review of Key Concepts
- Go over the major themes from the course.
- Lesson 28: Student Art Presentations
- Students present their projects and share what they have learned.
Week 15: Evaluation and Future of Art
- Lesson 29: Reflecting on the Course
- Discuss what students enjoyed and learned.
- Lesson 30: The Future of Art
- Explore concepts like digital art and art technology.
This structured course plan enables Grade 3 students to develop a fundamental understanding of art history while fostering their creativity and critical thinking skills. Each lesson builds upon the last, culminating in a hands-on art show that showcases their learning and growth.