Academic Handbook 2025-2026 | Page 51

Art 8 teaches the essential elements of visual art ; responding to the work of other artists , cultures and craft makers , learning about image development strategies , and developing skills with a variety of media , techniques and processes . Students begin by exploring the question “ What is art ?” They are encouraged to think critically , experiment boldly , and to create art that is both creative and meaningful . The course incorporates 2D , 3D , and mixed media . Students express themselves in their sketchbook by collecting research and sketching plans . They document their progress and final product in their digital portfolio .

Through their projects , students explore the following Big Ideas :

• Creative growth requires patience , readiness to take risks , and willingness to try new approaches .

• Individual and collective expression can be achieved through the arts .

• Visual art is a unique language for creating and communicating .

• Artists often challenge the status quo and open us to new perspectives and experiences .

Where possible , a unit of study is built upon visiting a local gallery exhibition and / or a crosscurricular connection . Assessment uses standards based grading , with ongoing feedback and project evaluations to support learning and growth .

Art 9 builds on the foundational skills learned in Art 8 , encouraging students to deepen their creative practice and develop artworks that reflect their understanding of the world around them . Students explore concepts and themes , learning how to choose materials and techniques that best communicate their ideas visually . They work with a variety of media and processes while refining their technical and creative abilities .

Through their projects , students explore the following Big Ideas :

• Identity is explored and expressed through the visual arts .

• Art provides insights into the perspectives of people from different times , places , and cultures .

• Art experiences can foster a sense of community .

• Visual art uses a unique sensory language for creating and communicating .

Students document their artistic journey in sketchbooks and digital portfolios , developing their ideas and reflecting on their growth . Whenever possible , learning is enriched through opportunities such as gallery visits or workshops with guest artists . Assessment is standardsbased , with ongoing feedback and evaluations of coursework and projects to support growth and achievement .

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