The Value of Art
12/12/2020
At the beginning of this 2020 school year, PNA had to make the difficult decision to put some of our “specials” on hold. At that time we were navigating how to best keep our students safe. Thankfully, we found ways to safely integrate art education back into our curriculum. The day the 5th and 6th graders were told they were going to have a “real” art class, was a very joyful day. Since then, our students have learned several different mediums and have been reaping all of the benefits art education provides kids. Art is often described as an "extra" and not something vital to kids' education. On the contrary. Art offers learning opportunities that are invaluable. Each day students are asked to push their creative thinking, while maintaining a growth mindset. Students are problem-solving and persevering when things don't go the way they initially planned. They're developing their interests and have started to take pride in their work. At the end of every art class, students spend another 10 minutes showing off their products--excited about their learning and progress. Laura Bruni, our wonderful art teacher, has taught the 5th and 6th graders four different mediums in the short time she's been their art teacher. She started off by using a papier-mâché medium (of sorts) and taught the students how to create 3D "monsters" around Halloween. Students used balloons to shape their creation and then painted and incorporated ping pong balls to embellish. Next, the kids worked on perspective and did some sketching and shading practice. These kids love to draw. Their work, both formally in art class, and informally in their everyday doodles, is impressive. Finally, just in time for the holiday season, our students used simple pasta to create elegant ornaments and soda cans to create lovely candle centerpieces. Many of the students were especially excited to gift their creations to their families. PNA kids are almost always excited about learning but being excited about creating adds a whole additional layer to their education. |
Elizabeth FerryMs. Ferry's experiences include teaching with the Peace Corps in Tanzania, teaching high school English in Maine, and this is her second year at PNA. She loves moose, outdoor activities, and being with her students. Archives
April 2021
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