Visual Arts in SCS
Art in the Elementary Schools
Students in Spotsylvania elementary schools have art once a week where they explore a variety of medias.
Art in the Midde Schools
Art - Grade 6 (Semester Class) An emphasis is placed on the design elements for expression and communication and the role of art in world cultures and contemporary life. Students will identify the contribution of artists to societ
y; draw objects in the environment; demonstrate visual memory skills; investigate the use and impact of persuasive techniques in art; indicate how art reflects various cultures, periods, or civilizations; compare styles of art; use appropriate media techniques to create texture or the appearance of texture; and mix and use colors.
Art - Grade 7 (Semester) - This course emphasizes line, texture, shape, space, color, and art appreciation. Students are exposed to visual communication, design principles, and drawing. The course reflects the stude
nts’ concern for realistic representation and their interest in contemporary issues. The eighth grade course offers similar art experiences to the seventh grade course with variation of medium or projects.
Art - Grade 8 (Semester) This course emphasizes line, texture, shape, space, color, and art appreciation. Students are exposed to visual communication, design principles, and drawing. The course reflects the students’ concern for realistic representation and their interest in contemporary issues. The eighth grade course offers similar art experiences to the seventh grade course with variation of medium or projects.
Art in the High Schools
Art I -This course introduces the creation and appreciation of art. Emphasis is placed on learning to draw, on understanding art as a visual language, and on recognizing the relationship of art to other fields. Students are expected to provide some of their own supplies (such as drawing pencils, erasers, sharpener, art pads, and colored pencils) for completing homework assignments.
Art II - This course provides in-depth experiences in drawing, painting, graphics, sculpture and crafts. The aim of this class is the development of each individual’s ideas and the skills needed to express them. Continued exposure to various artists and their contributions to the history of art are examined.
Art III - This course is an intensive inquiry into and discussion of the various art techniques. Art III classes also investigate the history of art to gain a perspective of the student’s own work.
Art IV - This course is an in-depth study of art techniques specifically designed for the student. The emphasis is on the students developing their own style, as well as experimentation with different materials and methods.
Art Seminar - This course is intended to allow an interested art student to pursue in-depth art experiences under the supervision of the art teacher. Serious art students will further complete their portfolio and prepare for post high school art studies.
Advanced Placement Studio Art - This is a rigorous college-level course which requires the production of an extensive portfolio. Students who enroll in Advanced Placement Studio Art should do so with the understanding that they plan to participate in Advanced Placement evaluation.