Lesson Plan: Elements and Principles of Art
Subject: Art
Grade Level: Adaptable (adjust activities based on age and skill level)
Time Allotment: 5 days (45-60 minutes per day)
Content Standard: Understand the different elements and principles of
organization in the arts and how they are applied to the various forms of art
to communicate ideas, create meaning, and elicit a response from the
audience.
Performance Standard: Evaluate the different elements and principles of
organization in artworks.
Learning Competency: Identifies and analyzes the elements of organization
in the arts (painting, print, photography, and other forms of two-dimensional
art; sculpture, installation, and other forms of three-dimensional art; and
architecture).
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Define and identify the seven elements of art (line, shape, form, space,
color, value, texture).
- Define and identify the seven principles of art (balance, emphasis, contrast,
rhythm, movement, pattern, unity).
- Analyze how the elements and principles of art are used in various artworks
(painting, sculpture, architecture, photography).
- Apply their understanding to create their own artwork incorporating these
elements and principles.
Materials:
- Various examples of artworks (paintings, sculptures, photographs,
architectural images) – both 2D and 3D. Consider diverse styles and
cultures.
- Art supplies (paper, pencils, crayons, paints, clay, etc., depending on
chosen projects)
- Chart paper or whiteboard
- Markers or pens
- Projector and screen (optional)
Day 1: Introduction to the Elements of Art
- Activity: Begin with a brainstorming session: What makes a piece of art
interesting or effective?
- Direct Instruction: Introduce the seven elements of art (line, shape, form,
space, color, value, texture). Define each element with clear examples from
the prepared artwork samples. Use visuals extensively.
- Activity: Students individually sketch examples of each element.
Day 2: Exploring the Principles of Art
- Direct Instruction: Introduce the seven principles of art (balance, emphasis,
contrast, rhythm, movement, pattern, unity). Define each principle and show
how it's applied in different artworks.
- Activity: Students work in small groups, analyzing pre-selected artworks
and identifying the principles used. They present their findings to the class.
Day 3: Analyzing Artworks – 2D
- Activity: Show a variety of 2D artworks (paintings, prints, photographs).
Students individually analyze one artwork, identifying the elements and
principles used and how they contribute to the overall effect.
- Discussion: Class discussion focusing on the different interpretations and
analyses of the same artwork.
Day 4: Analyzing Artworks – 3D
- Activity: Show examples of 3D artworks (sculptures, installations,
architecture). Students, in pairs, analyze one artwork, focusing on how the
elements and principles are used differently in three dimensions.
- Discussion: Class discussion comparing and contrasting the use of elements
and principles in 2D versus 3D art.
Day 5: Creating Art – Application
- Activity: Students create their own artwork, applying the elements and
principles of art they’ve learned. The medium can be chosen based on
student preference and available materials. Encourage experimentation and
creativity.
- Assessment: Students present their artwork, explaining the elements and
principles they incorporated and the effect they intended to create.
Assessment:
- Participation in class discussions
- Accuracy in identifying elements and principles in analyzed artworks
- Quality and creativity of student artwork
- Clarity of explanation in the presentation of student artwork
Differentiation:
- For students who need more support: Provide simplified definitions and
examples, offer one-on-one assistance, allow for more time to complete
tasks.
- For students who need more challenge: Encourage independent research,
more in-depth analysis, exploration of more complex artworks, and the use
of more advanced techniques.
This lesson plan is adaptable. You can adjust the time allotted for each day
and the specific artworks used based on the students' age, skill level, and
available resources. Remember to encourage active participation and
creative expression throughout the lesson.
