Academic Handbook 2026-2027 | Page 51

Art 8 introduces students to the essentials of visual art in an engaging, hands-on way. Students look at the work of artists and makers from different cultures, learn how images and ideas are developed, and build skills using a variety of art materials and techniques.

We begin by exploring the big question“ What is art?”. From there, students are encouraged to think creatively, try new things, and make artwork that is meaningful to them. They work in both 2D and 3D forms, experiment with a variety of media, and use a sketchbook to plan, gather ideas, and reflect on their learning. Students also create a digital portfolio to document their progress and completed projects as well as reflect on their learning.

Where possible, students will connect their learning to real art experiences, such as hosting a guest artist, visiting a local gallery, or working with material from other subject areas. Assessment follows standards-based grading, with ongoing formative and summative feedback as well as various assessment strategies to support each student’ s artistic development and confidence.

Students explore these Art 8 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.

Art 9 invites students to explore the central question“ What do artists do?”. Students learn how artists develop ideas, experiment with materials, respond to the world around them, and communicate meaning through their artwork. They explore concepts and themes, discovering how to choose the materials and techniques that best express their ideas visually. Throughout the course, students work with a variety of media and processes, building their technical skills while strengthening their creative thinking, problemsolving, and ability to reflect on their work.

Sketchbooks and digital portfolios are used throughout the year as places to record ideas, plan projects, experiment, and reflect on artistic growth. Whenever possible, learning is enhanced through experiences such as gallery visits or workshops with guest artists.

Assessment is standards-based, with ongoing feedback and project evaluations designed to support each student’ s development and confidence as an artist.

Students explore these Art 9 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.

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