Summary
Students work together in groups of 4-5. As a product of the lesson, students create a sculpture that represents the style of a contemporary sculptor that is assigned to them. In order to create this piece of artwork, each group researches a contemporary sculptor they have researched. All group members decide what information to assemble, and then they collect and record that information in their sketchbooks, and use this research is used to create thumbnail sketches that are inspired by their sculptor. The students compare their thumbnail sketches as a group and decide what their final sculpture will look like. After creating their sculpture, each group member participates in presenting information about the sculpture that they created and the artist that they researched. The lesson is divided into timed sections according to the task. This fast pace energizes the students, forces them to work efficiently, and creates a dynamic learning environment.
TIPC Ratings
Ideal
Students uses Scholastic Magazine articles to review information and continue their research online using a variety of search engines, including Google Images. The students develop questions about their sculptor and his/her art to guide their research. The students assemble and organize this information in order to create individual thumbnail sketches that are then shared with the rest of the group. The students synthesize all of the group research and ideas in order to create their final product. The use of digital tools allows the students to complete this lesson in the intended (short) time frame. Search engines allow the students to compile a large amount of information on their artist from a variety of sources, including pictures of his/her work in 20 minutes or less, leaving plenty of time for the creative process.
Not Observed
The teacher selects groups and the subject that each group will research. Students decide as a group how to present their information and sculpture to the rest of the class. Students collaborate throughout the entire lesson on various parts of the sculpture; however, they do not use digital tools to collaborate.
Not Observed
The students figure out how to use a limited amount of classroom materials to create their desired sculpture in the style of their artist. This process requires quite a bit of critical thought, but students do not use digital tools to leverage this skill.
Not Observed
Students combine their ideas to create a sculpture based on the style of the sculptor they have researched . Creativity is a focus of the lesson; however, students do not use digital tools for the creation portion of the lesson.
Classroom Action/Student Artifacts
Contemporary Art Sculptures – Classroom Action from HCPS Instructional Technology on Vimeo.
