How do you begin an art program where one never existed?
Starting a new program is an exciting proposition. There are topics on my blog and chapters in this book that will be helpful:
65. Lesson Planning Strategy
66. Scaffolding Lesson Planning
96. 100 Open Ended Drawing Prompts
108. Curriculum
148. Ordering Supplies
153. The Perfect Art Room
158. Organization: Supplies, Space, Time
161. Keeping Track of Artwork
Chances are you will be pressed for time, and consider you are not paid for the work you do outside of the school year or your contracted hours. Most teachers though will use their own time to prepare, but don't let it come to the detriment of your family or life or you may "burn out" too soon.
You may or may not have a curriculum to work from. And though this will sound counter-intuitive, I'd "forget" about the curriculum until you find your footing.
Devote the first day or so to procedures, seating, class rules, etc. Then perhaps another few days reviewing vocabulary like art elements and principles. Perhaps a video where they can see these concepts in action and take some graded notes and even a quiz. Develop a few simple introductory lessons where students can have some hands-on time and you get the time to dig into curriculum. This will also give you an overview of their skills. Keep these lessons simple and drawing based so clean-up is easy and students begin to understand your expectations. Even a 3D class or ceramics class can begin with drawing/sketching for future assignments.
In a new program, this will help you "stall" a little bit for time, but ultimately, this is a great way to ease into a program. Though students might be more excited to dive into painting or sculpting with clay, you'll be left with a nightmare to clean up. There is a whole year to explore, so don't be in a hurry.
If you are asked to create a k-4 curriculum for your school, GOOGLE IT with "PDF" in the search string. (SAMPLE LINK) Many schools publish their curriculum online for the public to see and read. Download that and make it your own. Change it to fit your needs. It's a guide, not a manifesto. Take a deep breath, you can do this.
These are some of my introductory lessons that will allow diverse results and students seem to enjoy. I always have them sketch first, get me to sign off on their sketch, then draw on "good" paper. This video may be helpful: bit.ly/AmIDone
1. Create an illustration for song that you listen to that always cheers you up. Incorporate some of the lyrics within the image. (Keep it school appropriate)
2. Create a comic book cover parody. artedguru.com/home/comic-book-covers
3. Alphabet or name illustrations
artedguru.com/home/alphabet-illustrations
4. Artwork for your cell phone lock screen.
artedguru.com/home/cell-phone-artwork
All of these lessons require little "help" from the teacher but students find very engaging. While students work, you can review curriculum, organize storage, order supplies, and do what you need to do to get the new program up-and-running. It is quiet likely that IF you have a curriculum, these lessons will dovetail nicely into some unit.
If you have a ceramics class, beginning with art elements and principles is still helpful. Below is a good first exploration. I would have them sketch first. Share sketches for feedback, complete a new drawing based on feedback and begin to work in clay only after that.
artedguru.com/home/first-time-for-clay-hs
Starting a new program can be overwhelming, so starting slow is highly recommended. Even if students beg to paint or use clay, remind them they need to show you they are ready for it by how they use these more simple supplies.
65. Lesson Planning Strategy
66. Scaffolding Lesson Planning
96. 100 Open Ended Drawing Prompts
108. Curriculum
148. Ordering Supplies
153. The Perfect Art Room
158. Organization: Supplies, Space, Time
161. Keeping Track of Artwork
Chances are you will be pressed for time, and consider you are not paid for the work you do outside of the school year or your contracted hours. Most teachers though will use their own time to prepare, but don't let it come to the detriment of your family or life or you may "burn out" too soon.
You may or may not have a curriculum to work from. And though this will sound counter-intuitive, I'd "forget" about the curriculum until you find your footing.
Devote the first day or so to procedures, seating, class rules, etc. Then perhaps another few days reviewing vocabulary like art elements and principles. Perhaps a video where they can see these concepts in action and take some graded notes and even a quiz. Develop a few simple introductory lessons where students can have some hands-on time and you get the time to dig into curriculum. This will also give you an overview of their skills. Keep these lessons simple and drawing based so clean-up is easy and students begin to understand your expectations. Even a 3D class or ceramics class can begin with drawing/sketching for future assignments.
In a new program, this will help you "stall" a little bit for time, but ultimately, this is a great way to ease into a program. Though students might be more excited to dive into painting or sculpting with clay, you'll be left with a nightmare to clean up. There is a whole year to explore, so don't be in a hurry.
If you are asked to create a k-4 curriculum for your school, GOOGLE IT with "PDF" in the search string. (SAMPLE LINK) Many schools publish their curriculum online for the public to see and read. Download that and make it your own. Change it to fit your needs. It's a guide, not a manifesto. Take a deep breath, you can do this.
These are some of my introductory lessons that will allow diverse results and students seem to enjoy. I always have them sketch first, get me to sign off on their sketch, then draw on "good" paper. This video may be helpful: bit.ly/AmIDone
1. Create an illustration for song that you listen to that always cheers you up. Incorporate some of the lyrics within the image. (Keep it school appropriate)
2. Create a comic book cover parody. artedguru.com/home/comic-book-covers
3. Alphabet or name illustrations
artedguru.com/home/alphabet-illustrations
4. Artwork for your cell phone lock screen.
artedguru.com/home/cell-phone-artwork
All of these lessons require little "help" from the teacher but students find very engaging. While students work, you can review curriculum, organize storage, order supplies, and do what you need to do to get the new program up-and-running. It is quiet likely that IF you have a curriculum, these lessons will dovetail nicely into some unit.
If you have a ceramics class, beginning with art elements and principles is still helpful. Below is a good first exploration. I would have them sketch first. Share sketches for feedback, complete a new drawing based on feedback and begin to work in clay only after that.
artedguru.com/home/first-time-for-clay-hs
Starting a new program can be overwhelming, so starting slow is highly recommended. Even if students beg to paint or use clay, remind them they need to show you they are ready for it by how they use these more simple supplies.
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