Art II Syllabus

Studio Art II WMMS Visual Arts Syllabus  
Mrs. Fernandez-Castillo


Welcome to my class!  I am looking forward to the new school year with you.  Please take a few minutes to read through this syllabus outlining art room procedures and expectations.

Course Content:

This is an upper level course offered for art students who would like to undertake greater artistic challenges through the practice of sustained art-making involving more complex compositional, technical, and conceptual problems. Students will further develop artistic skills by increasing the quality and quantity of their studio portfolio. Students will continue to focus on problem-solving skills, using the Elements of Art and Principles of Design in order to create expressive, well-organized works of art. We will focus heavily on more complex drawing and painting skills. Students will be exposed to a variety of two dimensional materials and mediums, and will also have opportunities to write about and discuss their own works, and the works of others.

Objectives:

Students will create artworks using a variety of media and techniques.
Students will identify major artists and styles.
Students will analyze their own artwork, other students’ work and the work of well-known artists through critiques and in-class writing.
Students will develop their own style by creating sketches to plan for major art projects.
Students will create a portfolio of at least ten (10) works throughout the course that demonstrates increasing skill and ability.
Students will maintain a visual journal/sketchbook in which to keep class notes, sketches, observational items and vocabulary.                
Improve his/her verbal skills by learning the visual vocabulary and apply those terms during class discussions, critique and projects.
Continue to develop two-dimensional art skills which will prepare them for high school art classes or possible audition/entry into high school visual art magnet programs.

Just as you have high expectations for me as your teacher, I have high expectations for you as my student.  I expect you to come to class prepared and ready to create original artwork.  You are required to bring a pencil, eraser, sharpener and your sketchbook every day to class.  While you are here, please be responsible with supplies and always be on task so you can do your best work.  If you cannot complete a project or assignment on time, it is your responsibility to speak with me about an extension.  Missing or incomplete work will result in a lower or failing grade. 

The art room is a place of mutual respect.  I expect you to treat your peers, your teacher (whether a substitute or me), and yourself with the highest level of respect.  Please be polite and do not put down your artwork or the artwork of another classmate.  If appropriate behavior becomes a challenge for you, we will meet to find a solution.  If necessary, we will include parents and administrators.

Effective artists constantly practice their drawing skills in journals or sketchbooks.  As part of the middle school art program, students are required to complete sketchbook assignments as homework.  You will be assigned one (1) sketchbook assignment per week to help you build your creative drawing skills. Due dates and topics will be clearly posted in the art room and online. The sketchbook/journal is also what you will work on should you finish other larger projects/assignments early (I will determine what extra assignment you are to work on in that case).  

All studio project grades are based on the following criteria:·       
Problem Solving- Accomplishing stated goals for lesson and solving artistic problems presented by the lesson. Meeting both general criteria and specific criteria of the project.       
Composition- Proper use of elements and principles of design in the work of art. 
Concept- Expressing an original, thoughtful, or compelling idea. The development of ideas artistically. Use of imagination, creativity and intellect in work of art.      
Technique- Demonstrating the quality and careful use of artistic procedures, processes, details, and techniques. Use of specific methods prescribed for lesson.     
Participation/Effort: Working hard, positive attitude, contributing to critiques and discussion, valuing other work, developing work over time (reflection, research, revision, etc.). 

Expectations:

Come to class prepared, on time, and with required materials.
Turn in completed projects that meet the minimum requirements.
Label all work clearly with first name, last name and period on the back of your work.
Clean your entire area at the end of the period. Check the floors for trash, put art materials away in designated location. Make sure chairs are pushed in and tables are wiped down if dirty.
Absences from school must have a note from home. Extended deadlines on projects will not be given unless this is an excused absence.                     

Art Fee:

There will be a fee of $4 for each student. for this course.  I will give you more information regarding when I’ll be collecting it.

Grading Procedures:

The grading of artwork will be divided into two categories: major projects and class work. Projects are the final evaluation of the student’s ability to demonstrate his/her problem-solving skills as well as mastery of the techniques and ideas learned and practiced in class.  
 Each project will be given a specific due date. If the student cannot make the due date during class work time, the student will need to make an appointment to complete the project before and/or after school.
 Class work grades will include exercises practiced in class leading up to larger projects, writing assignments and other various class assignments. In addition,  the student’s grade will be calculated based on participation grades. These grades will be given based on the student’s ability to participate in class work, follow all class procedures, and remain on task. Students are expected to remain on task for the entire period.

Never hesitate to approach me with your questions, concerns, or ideas.

Many thanks!
Mrs. N. Fernandez-Castillo

Email: nadia.fernandez@dadeschools.net