Teacher:
		Jennifer Tsui Art

From the first day that kindergarteners enter the art room, we begin a journey of discovery and celebration of the creative process. Through the reading of children’s literature, close examination of natural and man-made objects, and quick trips outdoors, we find inspiration in the world around us. Sometimes we draw from nature or still-life set-ups, slowly and carefully developing our observational skills which will ultimately serve us in our academic subjects as well as in art. Fine motor skills become increasing more sophisticated with weekly practice of a wide variety of tasks, but most especially, drawing. Along the way, we learn about the elements of art and principles of design… Foreground and background become part of our spatial awareness and our vocabulary. We ponder the emotional content of color and how it can best serve us. Diagonal lines often give the illusion of movement or gesture… Sometimes these things slip into our consciousness without our noticing. Other times we make deliberate attempts to understand and practice concepts that may be daunting at first.

Art assignments are always open-ended, allowing for the individuality and unique strengths of each student. Encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving in each child through art means that our students can view the world in a broader and more interesting way. The possibilities which lay before them will then appear to be infinite.

In Kindergarten we have been learning about our new school and playing different “observation:” games.  The most popular one has been affectionately named, “I Spy”.  Our young artists are using their expanded observation skills to create drawings about this new world around them.  Their schoolmates in first, second and third grade are also honing their observation skills.  Using the book, “Are You a Butterfly?” as a guide, they have been doing drawings about the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly.  We were also very fortunate to have been able to observe a real chrysalis supplied by the Schuylkill Center. Many of the students’ illustrations were on display for the Schuylkill Center’s Insect Festival.

Students in grades 4 and 5 have expanded their observation skills to create still-life drawings from nature.  Some of their wonderful work from last year will be on display at the “Art in City Hall” event scheduled to open next month. 

In 6th, 7th, and 8th grade we are exploring “Art in Everyday Life.” Look for their CD, DVD and T-shirts to be on the shelves, themselves and in (stores) near you! The development of portfolios for the 8th grade students applying to high school is already an important topic and will continue to get more focus throughout the fall and winter months.

It is a pleasure working with the students of Green Woods and we are all very excited about the work we are doing in art class.  What will the rest of the school year bring?  Stay tuned for the next update from the Art Room!

[ 2008 Art Gallery ]

At Green Woods the creative arts play an important role in our integrated curriculum. To learn more see Integrating Science, Language Arts and the Creative Arts.