Art Education

The Art curriculum focuses on the “Elements of Design”: line, shape, color, texture, space, value, and form. It also focuses on the “Principles of Design”: movement, rhythm, balance, unity, contrast, emphasis, and pattern. Artists from different backgrounds are featured periodically.

Students in grades K-3 have Art class once a week for 40 minutes. Grades 4-8 have Art class twice a week for 40-45 minutes. Students are exposed to a wide variety of art materials, cultures, and styles of art. They have hands on experiences in both two and three dimensional art. Middle school students also have the opportunity to do research about topics related to art. They are required to sketch in their sketchbooks a minimum of 30 minutes per week.

Students in K-5 are graded according to effort using the grading system for their level. Middle school students are graded on design, skill, and effort. Students do a self evaluation of all major projects. Final grades are based on daily assignments, sketchbooks, and major projects. A letter grade of A-F is given.

Students are encouraged to visit local museums and take advantage of the great resources available in the Twin city area. Field trips are arranged whenever possible. Anyone that has an artistic talent and is willing to share it with our students, please contact Ms. Tysk through our website.