First Grade

The first grade art curriculum builds on the vocabulary, techniques and skills we learned in kindergarten art. For many first graders the process is still more important than the product and their fine motor skills continue to grow. We continue to identify in nature, the environment and works of art the elements of design (line, color, shape/form, texture, value, space) and principles of design (pattern, repetition, and variation) while introducing the new principles (movement, emphasis, contrast, harmony.) The children’s skills grow and develop naturally as they have fun experimenting with drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, mixed media and puppetry. In keeping with the classroom curriculum the inspiration for our lessons comes from the art of cultures around the world, contemporary artists and art history. As students make observations about art and create art they are confident in following their own voice, asking questions and thinking outside the box.

Our Curriculum is Inspired by...

Artists and Art History, Past and Present

Michelle Wood and Joe Sam Inspired Self-Portraits

Students made observations about the self portrait s of Contemporary African American Artists Michelle Wood and Joe Sam. We made observations about representational color, imaginary color, contrast, warm and cool colors and noticed the patterns and family members in the background of Michelle Wood’s self-portrait painting. Each child looked in the mirror and noticed their unique features as they drew a variety of lines and shapes to create an outline of their face. Next they added color paying attention to warm and cool colors and how they could use them to create contrast.

Art from Around the World

Paper Mache Puppets

We make observations about puppets from around the world. Children make the puppet head out of recycled materials and paper mache it. We look at pictures of animals with repetitive patterns. Next they mix the primary colors to make the secondary colors. Then they mix tints by adding white to a color and shades by adding black. After painting their puppet heads they choose fabric, stitch and embellish their puppet body.

Integrating with Classroom Curriculum

Spiral Line Painting

While first graders are studying snails in their classroom, we make observations about spirals in nature, works of art and our everyday lives. Students use their imaginations to paint a world of spirals using a variety of lines and warm and cool colors.