There is considerable research on the academic value of students receiving instruction in the Visual and Performing Arts. All District 11 art classes are taught by qualified art teachers. Students will learn the elements of art and principles of design. They will learn about art in relation to history, culture, and the community. They will also recognize and use the visual arts as a form of communication, and will critique works of art through analysis, assessment, and evaluation. As we progress into the second quarter, more formalized assessments of each student's level of mastery begin and continue throughout the year.

Enduring Understandings - important ideas that students should carry with them years beyond the instruction received this year.

• Artists can communicate in an original and personal way.
• Artists know how to effectively use various art mediums.
• Artists know how to critique art.

Essential Questions - most important “big picture” questions students should be able to answer after completing learning activities.

• How do you use art to communicate?
• What knowledge is necessary to communicate in art?
• How do you make a piece of art original and personal?
• What is the purpose of various tools, materials, techniques and processes?
• How do you make knowledgeable decisions about tools, materials, techniques and processes?
• What is the benefit of critiquing art?

Standards I, III, V

1. Students recognize and use the visual arts as a form of communication
2. Students will have the ability to understand what evokes meaning in art.
3. Students know and apply the use of tools, materials, techniques and processes
4. Students will utilize various tools, materials, techniques and processes in works of art.
5. Students critique works of art through analysis, assessment and evaluation.