Class Art for Teachers (Includes Smartboard CD)

CLASS ART is an invitation to create exciting and interesting artworks while having fun playing with lines, patterns, shapes and colours. The ideas are structured to introduce the fundamental elements and principles of design and picture making. They also provide a foundation knowledge of pictorial composition i.e. arranging shapes in the picture space in an interesting
way, the use of mixed media and a variety of techniques to obtain different effects such as shading, blending and overlaying colour, scratch back and stippling. The hand, fist and fingers (tip and width) are used to establish size and space relationship in the picture space. Ideas can be modified to cater to different age groups.

KNOW YOUR SUBJECT MATTER - With the availability of Information Computer Technology, teachers can broaden children's knowledge and visual experience of subject matter to ensure understanding and confidence in producing artworks.

A large part of each lesson is devoted to researching, observing and discussing the subject matter which covers a wide range of topics. This provides an opportunity to broaden and enrich descriptive language and increase observation skills. Art stimulates perception, analytical and observational skills, language and problem solving. There is a connection between drawing and geometric shapes and measurements. Children learn to see familiar things in new ways. It allows children to make their own assessments when experimenting and learning how to handle different materials effectively. Children also
improve motor skills making it easier to reproduce what the mind imagines and to analyse and talk about their artwork. It allows them to experience and express their material and emotional world in more meaningful ways. It is an important means of self – expression in communicating meaning, mood and ideas.

Materials have been limited to those available as part of standard school supplies. Preparation has been kept to a minimum to make it easier for teachers to organise lessons in the classroom. It is recommended that teachers and students work through lessons together, making discoveries and discussing the characteristics and expressive qualities of the subject matter. It is important that children complete work in order to achieve a feeling of accomplishment and
satisfaction.

All the lessons have been trialled in the classroom and began with children observing and absorbing information before easing their way into the picture space. As lessons continue there is a progression to ownership as they embrace their work. This occurs when children cease asking questions and decide themselves how the finished work will look.