Art K-5

 

The NH Art program K-5 provides students with a rich foundation rooted in the Visual Fine Arts that incorporates the National Art Education Standards, Connecticut Standards for the Visual Arts, and a Discipline Based Art Education (DBAE) philosophy which aligns with the Common Core State Standards.

 

Students work in media such as crayon, paint, clay, print-making, paper maché, and collage and master skills including cutting, pasting, painting, etc. Lessons integrate classroom themes in language arts, social studies, and science and incorporate Art History, Aesthetics, and Art Criticism.

 

The curriculum for each grade level is designed to nurture student creativity and problem-solving skills and allow students to explore a variety of media (materials), apply the Design Elements and Principles to their work, respond using appropriate vocabulary, and evaluate the outcome of their work and that of others.

 

The GOAL of the elementary art educators is to provide students the opportunity to observe and make rational judgments about art and the world around them. Above all, we hope students will learn about, enjoy and appreciate creating and viewing art.

 

WHAT IS ART?

 

Many definitions have been proposed in attempts to define Art which is seen as a melding of materials, processes and personal expression rooted in the development and application of skills and understanding of Design concepts. While definitions may vary, the overall benefits of children participating in Art Education are indisputable.

 

WHY IS ART EDUCATION IMPORTANT?

 

Art provides students with opportunities to:

• Build problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Develop self-esteem and self-discipline
• Learn how to work cooperatively and collaboratively with others
• Develop the ability to imagine what might be
• Learn to weigh meaning and evaluate ideas and concepts
• Appreciate, understand, and be aware of different cultures and values

 

HOW CAN ART ENHANCE A CHILD'S ABILITY TO LEARN?

 

Studies have shown that students with a strong education in Fine Arts score significantly higher (an average of 40 points) on SAT exams. The Arts also create new outlets for student ideas and emotions resulting in fewer student disciplinary referrals and higher school attendance rates. Art is a universal visual form of communiciation and experts confirm that students who study art develop better language, reading and writing skills. Art enables children to optimize their learning potential and develop strong skills that serve them throughout their lifetimes.

 

Elementary Art Brochure (North Haven Art Program Overview)