Great Neck South Middle School

Course Descriptions

• Art 6 is a general broad based, art course. It is intended to involve all students at their own level in a “hands on” studio situation. The students work in a variety of art mediums, both two-dimensional and three-dimensional. The proper use and care of art tools and materials is explained and demonstrated. Opportunities for interdisciplinary art projects related to other subject areas are provided. Art history, critical analysis and the development of an art vocabulary is introduced at a basic level.

• Art 7 is a general art course that builds on the knowledge and skills developed in Art 6. It is a “hands on” studio course that delves deeper into the art curriculum. The students work in a variety of art mediums, both two dimensional and three dimensional. The proper use and care of art tools and materials is explained and demonstrated. Care in the planning and execution of projects is emphasized. The study of art history, critical analysis and the art vocabulary is further developed in Art 7.

• Advanced Art 8 is an eighth grade elective art course geared towards students with a strong interest in Visual Art who wish to continue to develop and enhance their skills. The course builds on the knowledge and skills developed in Art 7. The students work in a variety of art mediums, both two dimensional and three dimensional. The proper use and care of materials, higher level thinking and strong execution of projects is emphasized through visual art projects assigned.

• Art Foundations is a grade 8 advanced/elective course offered to qualified students that show strong talent in visual art. Art Foundations is a full year; one unit high school credit course. Students considered for this course must meet specific selection criteria and be recommended by their 7th grade art teacher. Art Foundations is the beginning of a comprehensive art sequence that is continued in high school. Students in this class will have the opportunity to do studio work in a wide variety of media. Skills development and mastery is heavily emphasized. Students in Art Foundations will be given instructional assignments that encourage them to communicate their own ideas and viewpoints through their artwork. Students will use the language of art criticism by responding in writing and orally to their own artwork, the work of their peers and of famous artists.