Seventh Grade Art

Instructor: Kim Lysne

Curriculum Map, Class Page, Gallery

Throughout history, humans have used art as a way to express who they are and what they believe in. In art class, students analyze contemporary and historical meanings in specific artworks through cultural and aesthetic inquiry. Students examine a variety of art and craft of Asia, Africa and the Middle East to better understand how the factors of place and time, conflicts and belief, and the human spirit influence the visual characteristics and give meaning and value to a work of art.

Students compare multiple purposes for creating works of art such as ceremony, utilitarian purposes, self-expression and conveying a message. Each of these themes is allowed to expand naturally and may include artifacts and performances from many times and cultures that reflect the students’ interests and concerns.  When students realize that art reflects and perpetuates cultural values, they can examine the art and visual culture of many societies to see how others have examined life issues.  Students can also try out other people’s ideas and styles and then adopt as their own the ones that fit. 

Guiding questions:

• What is considered art?
• What information can art reveal about a culture?
• How is art influenced by human need and human spirit?
• How can art be used to change misconceptions or stereotypes?

Focus areas:

• Experiment with a variety of media
• Reflect upon and asses the characteristics and merits of their work and the work of others
• Apply elements and principles of design
• Create art for meaning and expression as well as enjoyment.