GLOBAL CRAFTS

 

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

The curriculum will cover applied art practices from all corners of the globe from ancient to modern times.  Although an elective, this course is instrumental in providing specialized technical skills in many different mediums.  Many of the techniques and principles from Global Crafts may be applied to Studio in Art and beyond.

This course will satisfy the mind of the art and culture curious.  Each semester the class will examine art objects specific to a series of cultures from around the world. We will explore the ways in which these objects are used, made and how different cultures have their own concepts of beauty or aesthetic values.  As a class we will analyze art objects in a cultural context and learn in what ways these objects play a role in the lives of the people.  Students will employ techniques used by artisans to create their own objects inspired by and used within their culture. Many of the ideas and issues presented in class may be new to students.  The most important thing is to come to class ready to create and with an open mind.  Students are always encouraged to share stories, history or any related information about their own culture, heritage or personal experiences.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

The major objectives of Global Crafts include the following:

  • Students will be exposed to a wide variety of art media and processes. Each process is not necessary to move on the next unit, but students are encouraged to use prior skills as they progress through the semester.

  • Students will become more adept in using a broad range of materials and techniques.

  • Students will broaden their art vocabulary and their understanding of aesthetics.

  • Students will acquire the analytical tools necessary to decode the importance of art and crafted utilitarian objects in contemporary life and in specific cultural contexts.

  • Students will become fluent in the creative processes- concept, planning and execution.

COURSE ENRICHMENT

Enrichment will be provided through guest artists, lecturers and trips to galleries or museums.  Again, students are encouraged to share their ideas about trips and artist visits.

COURSE EVALUATION

Personal growth, constructive use of time in class and careful execution of assigned work are the major criteria for grading. Students will strive towards fluency in the creative processes. Respect for the classroom and care of the materials is emphasized. Grading rubrics outlining the requirements for a successful project are reviewed for each assignment before final grading.  There is a grace period of one week when work may be handed in late without penalty.  After this week work is downgraded two points for each day that it is late.  Many projects that we will do cannot be completed at home without great difficulty.  Use your class time wisely.  Often students will be asked to complete short assignments independently.  This may be in the form of research, writing or bringing materials to class.  These assignments or “homework” are integral to class and they will be included in determining your grade.

  • Class work equals 80% of your grade

  • Class participation and materials responsibility equals 10% of your grade

  • Homework equals 10% of your grade

RESOURCE MATERIALS

Students do not receive textbooks in class but there is a great deal of information students will compile during each semester.  Students are expected to keep an archive of this material, as it will become their textbook for the semester.  Some of this material will be provided and other resource materials will be compiled through student research.

CLASSROOM RULES

  • Students are expected to arrive on time, check in with the instructor and immediately begin work on their current project.  Students will be given a written referral once they have three unexcused tardies.

  • Students are expected to make maximum use of class time. If they need additional time to complete work they can come in during lunch, after school, or when possible they may take projects home. 

  • Students must respect their work environment and the work of others.  Cleanup and proper storage of supplies and projects is imperative.

  • Students are expected to complete all required work before the next project has been introduced.  If a student needs to take advantage of the one-week grace period they must find a time outside of class to finish their project. If a student finishes ahead of time they may work on an art related mini project, but they may not do homework or unrelated class work during their art period.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

  • Art Club: Open to all students

  • Arts Festival: Open to all students

  • Photo Club: Open to all students, photo background preferred.

CLASSROOM GUIDELINES

Be on time and enter the room ready to participate. You will receive two warnings for lateness.  After that disciplinary actions will take place.

  • Be respectful of your classmates, yourself and the room.  You demeanor and behavior sets the tone in the classroom so it is necessary to be prompt and attentive.

  • Be prepared to participate in class discussions.  Class discussions may take place at the beginning, middle or end of class.  If you are working on a project you should pause from your work and give your full attention to the discussion. 

  • Disruptive students and unacceptable behavior will simply not be tolerated.  The first incident will be followed by a conversation between the teacher and student as well as a telephone conversation with parent or guardian. If the behavior persists, a disciplinary referral will be issued.

TEACHER AVAILABILITY
The instructor is available each day for extra help after school until 3:00 PM in room 0019 and by appointment during mutually convenient times. Parents can contact the instructor by phone (914) 793-6130 or email:  MdeRham@eufsdk12.org.