Visual arts
Curriculum Guide

Description

The arts are a form of human expression through activity. They contribute to a school curriculum by offering a distinctive way of learning where seeing, feeling, hearing, thinking and creating are combined in a powerful form of visual, aural and tactile affective communication. Through the arts, students working both cooperatively and individually have opportunities to research, identify and discuss issues; to provide insights, opinions, solutions and resolutions; and to reflect on, appreciate and evaluate artwork. The arts are a powerful medium for the exploration of the human condition, our society and our world. In this respect they are a powerful educational tool for the exploration of different areas of the curriculum, the MYP areas of interaction and of different cultures.

(IB MYP Arts Guide 2000)

Visual arts objectives

The Arts objectives are divided into four criteria, which relate closely to the assessment criteria.

A Knowledge and Understanding
At the end of the course students should be able to:
• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theoretical basis of the art forms studied
• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a variety of styles, developments and ideas which have shaped the arts across time and cultures
• apply appropriate terminology to show aesthetic and critical awareness.

B Application
At the end of the course students should be able to:
• plan and organize effectively to define and set goals, solve problems, negotiate and make decisions
• experiment and explore through both spontaneous and structured activities
• use art confidently as a form of expression and communication while demonstrating a range of technical skills
• demonstrate an ability to find original and inventive solutions
• apply skills specific to the art forms studied to elaborate an idea, a theme or composition to a point of realization
• present work through formal or informal performance and exhibition.

C Evaluation and Reflection
At the end of the course students should be able to:
• reflect upon and evaluate their work in order to set goals for future development
• use group discussion and feedback to support and promote creative development
• assess and appraise their work and that of others.

D Artistic Awareness and Personal Engagement
At the end of the course students should be able to:
• show sensitivity to their own and different cultures
• accept and incorporate views and feedback from others to further develop their artistic potential
• show self-motivation in setting and meeting deadlines
• show initiative, creativity and a willingness to take risks
• support and encourage their peers towards a positive working environment.

Visual art assessment

Periodically during the year, students are awarded a level of achievement for each criterion. For each assessment criterion a number of band descriptors are defined, which indicate the progress of the student. Students and parents will be made aware of all the band descriptors during the year.

Criterion	Level	Band descriptor for the highest level possible
A Knowledge and Understanding	0-8	Level 7-8 The student shows a thorough understanding of the topic under consideration. The student confidently applies theoretical knowledge and subject-specific terminology to identify clearly the complexities of the materials studied.
B Application	0-10	Level 9-10 The student is highly competent in choosing and applying a range of skills and strategies for the realization of work. The student’s processes and resolved artwork reflect a high level of proficiency and creativity.
C Evaluation and Reflection	0-8	Level 7-8 The student gives a considered response to feedback and provides a thorough reflection and evaluation of his/her development and of the process of working. This evaluation includes an accurate analysis of the quality of produced work and details of improvements which could be made.
D Artistic Awareness and Personal Engagement	0-8	Level 7-8 The student demonstrates a high level of interest and personal engagement in the work, and shows initiative, enthusiasm and commitment.

Assessment criteria; rubrics