Standards and Backwards Mapping Based on the curriculum framework of the Japanese Art Education materials for junior high grade 7-9

Module 5-activity 2 Standards and Backwards Mapping

Based on the curriculum framework of the Japanese Art Education materials for junior high grade 7-9

Standard 1: Write an art critique identifying and explaining the use of the elements and principles of art in the Sunflower painting by Vincent Van Gogh.

What are the big ideas? (desired understandings and predictable misunderstandings)

Desired understanding: That students learn the elements and principles of art as they relate to a piece of art by Vincent Van Gogh.

Predictable misunderstanding: Students might had difficulty combining elements with principles of art to write a critique about art.
Proficiencies: the skill or expertise that the student has developed in understanding the elements and principles of art include :
1. application of elements and principles of art to Van Gogh's work of art 
2. application of elements and principles of art to their own and peer works of art
3. skill to describe, critique and discuss in this particular area of study— Art.

Backwards planning/ mapping:

1.     Students will watch a video on How to paint Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Vincent Van Gogh. Then discuss in groups the points they thought were important to highlight from each video.

2.     An 'artist study' worksheet is given to write about the painter and his work of art.

3.     Students will present to their partners their artist study and read their opinions about the painting.

4.     In pairs, now students will identify and list the elements and the principles of art in the painting.
The pair will present how the painting works and/or does not work; what they like and dislike about the painting, and why.

5.     A mark will be given for presentations, based on English grammar, pronunciation and use of terms, eye contact and voice projection.

6.     A test on Van Gogh and his painting will be given to assess the proficiency of the students in the areas of; comprehension of the elements: line, form, space, shape, texture, value, and colour.  Also, the principles of art: balance, contrast, unity, movement, pattern, rhythm, and emphasis. Lastly, students will be expected to write and essay discussing how these play out in the Sunflower painting.

7.     Each student must reproduce the Sunflowers piece using a grid and their own sketchbooks. Assessments are based on whether they bring their materials to class, how well they use the grid system to make an accurate reproduction, and whether they adhere to the deadline of the assignment.

Finally, students will prepare individual power point presentations or loilonote presentations that they will share in class about what they understood from the assignments and activities so as to complete the standard.