May 22, 2013

2012 – 2013 MES ART PROGRAM
Teachers:     Mrs. Audino Grades: Pre-K (AM), 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th
                     Mrs. Norfolk Grades: Pre-K (PM), Kindergarten, 1st

I am delighted to begin a variety of art lessons, introduce new artists for inspiration in a multiple of mediums this year. Please take the time to encounter the halls of the school and absorb the artistic talents at each grade level throughout the school year. Art project objectives, candid picture of students, and “Artists of the Month” will be posted on the art webpage monthly.

Art education is important for many reasons:

It's been proven that early exposure to visual art, music, or drama promotes activity in the brain.

Art helps children understand other subjects much more clearly—from math and science, to language arts and geography.

Art nurtures inventiveness as it engages children in a process that aids in the development of self-esteem, self-discipline, cooperation, and self-motivation.

Participating in art activities helps children to gain the tools necessary for understanding human experience, adapting to and respecting others' ways of working and thinking, developing creative problem-solving skills, and communicating thoughts and ideas in a variety of ways.

The Middleburgh Elementary School Art Education Program follows the
National Standards for Art Education:

Understanding and applying media, techniques, and processes

Using knowledge of structures and functions

Choosing and evaluating a range of subject matter, symbols and ideas

Understanding the visual arts in relation to history and cultures

Reflecting upon and assessing the characteristics and merits of a student's work and the work of others

Making connections between visual arts and other disciplines

Instructional Materials and Resources:

Portfolios Series Textbooks
Fine art reproductions and visual aids
Additional supplemental books and materials provided by the teacher and/or media center
Various types of art media are used throughout the year (paint, clay, paper, oil pastels)
Internet and computer based digital media are used to enhance student learning

Grading Policy: Daily Performance

Class Participation = 25 %

Active listening during instruction/in-class critiques/artist study

Intention and effort to the completion of class work in timely manner

Initiative

Class Preparation = 25%

Individual skills are accessed, as the ability to perform tasks required, not as artistic talent.

Assignments are thorough and complete, of high quality, well-organized and show a high level of commitment.

Almost all of the learning goals are fully or consistently met.

Independent (when expected) work toward performance criteria and/or targeted standards/elements

Craftsmanship = 25%

Individual skills are accessed, as the ability to perform tasks required, not as artistic talent.

Studio projects: Completion in painting, sculpture, collage, drawing, assemblage, ceramics, printmaking, fiber art, sketchbook assignments, and portfolios

Class Behavior = 25 %

Cooperation with others/use of classroom materials

Goal setting/individual assessment

Revised 9/10

Art portfolios

All student art portfolios will go home with students in June. Please also feel free to e-mail me or call the main office to arrange a time to view your child's artwork throughout the year. Your child will be involved in a quality, comprehensive art program that will sharpen their ability to produce imaginative masterpieces! Please take a moment to take an interest in their artwork by asking questions about the artist who inspired their work, pictures in their sketchbooks, or new techniques learned to create their art.