Through education in Art:

*Students discover their heritage and learn to understand the culture and values of which they are a part and those of others with whom they live.

*Students learn about the power of visual images to influence human behavior and to reflect their values and the aspirations of their society.

*Students explore their own potential to think creatively, to solve problems with ingenuity, and to respond to events and experiences with confidence and enthusiasm.

*Students understand that they can effect improvement in the environment and they can shape their individual live...their communities...and their nation.

Course description 6^th , 7^th ,and 8^th Grade Art Curriculum:

6^th Grade: VISUAL COMMUNICATION

Art is a way we, as humans, "talk" to one another. It is a dialogue with all times and people. It can be called visual literacy. Our class will engage students in personal expression of ideas through creative exploration and multiple solutions. We will continue the process of thinking that is relevant to creation and the development of the language of Art; Elements, Principles, History, Media and techniques.

 Key questions:

*What has been said throughout time?

*What do I think?

*What are some ways I can express my ideas?

7^th Grade CREATIVE CONNECTIONS

There are languages to be learned so that we can read the expressions of others and that will enable us to express our ideas effectively and eloquently. Each culture and time period has it’s own visual language that is both culturally specific and universal.

Our world values unique and creative ideas. While looking at the world from different points of view and exploring other cultures through their arts, their exciting cultural creativity will encourage you to use your imagination to explore, develop and express your own ideas through hands-on experiences with a variety of techniques and materials.

Key Questions:

*What does it mean to be human and how do we express our beliefs and values through art and artifacts?

*What factors influence artistic expressions?

*How are cultural concerns similar or dissimilar?

*How can we personally create art that expresses our ideas and culture?

*How does this knowledge effect us and how can it assist us in the future?

8^th Grade THE ARTIST IN YOU

Today’s world is about ideas. Learn the fun creative thinking skills that are incorporated into exciting careers like architecture, computer game design, cartooning and animation…Learn to look at our world in new and different ways as you are provided time for in-depth exploration of ideas and materials that will encourage your personal expression. Our historical emphasis is on worldwide contemporary and American artists.

Key Questions:

*What are artists saying today?

*How does that reflect American society? World issues?

Personal experiences?

*What issues in today’s world motivate me to respond personally?

*What do I want to say and how can I say it?

*What are career options in the visual arts?

*How has technology influenced the art field and professions?