Orbital Studies
Where students can explore a central idea/theme through smaller investigations. Students can explore the theme from different perspectives before creating a final artwork.
Example: Theme: Identity
Students make small sketches testing different colors, subjects, etc. After they experiment, they can decide which small-scale work they want to use as inspiration for the final artwork.
I chose this strategy because it helps students learn to experiment before starting an artwork. When students can work through their own ideas, they will figure out which way suits their needs most. When students struggle to come up with ideas, this takes the pressure off to just doodle or decide on colors. In a collage lesson, I would use this strategy to have students sort through magazines. I would give them a topic; let's say it is community. Then students can make sketches of what community means to them, so when searching for imagery, they know what they want.
Learning Contracts
This is an outline between teacher and student that shows what the students will learn, how they will complete the assignment, and the expectations. Students have freedom in how they demonstrate their learning.
Example: Create an artwork based on nature
The students will agree to choose their own medium, include research about an artist, complete a few sketches prior to the artwork, and have the final piece done by the deadline.
I choose this strategy because it allows students to not be surprised by expectations. This can also encourage independence and give students creative freedom to choose what they think is best for them. In a collage lesson, if I told students the objective is for them to create a collage with three sketches prior and a size limitation. The theme and other aspects are completely up to them.
Centers and Stations
This organization strategy splits the classroom into practicing skills within a medium before making their piece. Students would rotate between stations to practice skills, explore, etc.
Example: Exploring oil pastels
I would have stations for color mixing, blending, making textures, and a small final piece. This strategy is very useful because it keeps students engaged, provides an opportunity to explore materials and techniques, and get ideas from one another.
I choose this strategy because exploration is one of the key parts of making art. When students are allowed to make small studies about how to achieve certain things with a new material, it can boost their confidence. When students enjoy what they make, I think it directly relates to the effort they put into an artwork.
