• Philosophy of Art Curriculum

    Art is a universal language that each child speaks and responds to uniquely.  It is a discipline that develops and enhances the student’s ability to see, comprehend, select, analyze, apply, create and evaluate.

    The art curriculum at Sabin Middle School is a Standards Based Art Education that focuses on Studio Art, Art History, Aesthetics, and Criticism.

    It is an important starting point for any art education to have an atmosphere that is safe and positive for each individual student.  Many students come into an art classroom with the idea that artistic talent is something one is born with, not something that is learned.  In truth, everyone can learn to be artistic and how to utilize artistic techniques. 

    Sabin’s art curriculum is a safe and positive place that encourages students to learn about and explore the world of art.

     

    During our nine-week course, the following mediums may be utilized:

    ~Drawing               ~Printmaking

    ~Sculpture             ~Hand-Built Clay

    ~Painting               ~Design

    ~Mixed Media      ~Collage

     

    Introduction to the Visual Arts

    Introduction to the Visual arts is a beginning art class offered to all sixth-grade students.  Our art curriculum involves more than the making of meaningless objects and incorporates the studio project, art history, aesthetics, and criticism. Art projects are created through the application of the Elements of Art as we strive to explore as many varied mediums as each individual class allows.  The success of our art students is determined by the effort put in to the projects rather than the artistic abilities demonstrated in the completed project.

     Encounter with the Visual Arts

    Encounter with the Visual Arts provides 7th grade students with opportunities to explore and experiment with more advanced art techniques.  Use of these techniques will emphasize creative solutions in both two- and three-dimensional works of art.  Cultural and appreciative aspects of art will be incorporated into the course through art criticism, art history, and aesthetics.  If the majority of the class was unable to participate in Introduction to the Visual Arts in 6th grade, art fundamentals will be reviewed before more advanced techniques are explored.

    Intermediate Design

    Intermediate Design is a continuation of the techniques and problem-solving processes students experience in the basic art courses.  Students continue their exploration of the arts through studio activity, art history, art criticism, and aesthetics.

     

    Advanced Art

    Sabin students who show a focused interest in art throughout their 6th, 7th and 8th grade art classes have the opportunity to take Advanced Art during the 4th quarter of their 8th grade year.  This class is an introduction to the artistic work ethic needed for High School art.  Students are able to use their own unique interests to create advanced pieces that speak towards their exceptional talent as future artists.

    Colorado Visual Arts Standards

    The Colorado State Visual Art Standards provide teachers with a framework to engage students in the complex learning that occurs in the art classroom. The standards define a cyclical and interconnected creative process. A student may be utilizing the skills defined by all four standards simultaneously in one learning experience.

    1. Observe and Learn to Comprehend
    2. Envision and Critique to Reflect
    3. Invent and Discover to Create
    4. Relate and Connect to Transfer

     

    For more detailed information:

     https://www.cde.state.co.us/coarts/2020cas-va-p12