FIFTH GRADE . . . Learning how to appreciate art

Fifth graders have been bringing their sketchpads into art class. We took turns presenting our drawings with the class and we learned how to talk about each drawing. We were able to point out something specific about the sketch and we could ask the artist questions as well. How amazing would it be to go to a museum and actually ask Vincent van Gogh why he painted swirls in the sky of his "Starry Night!" To be able to ask an artist a question gives us an opportunity to learn and appreciate so much more about the art.

It is not enough just to say you like a picture; we want to know why you like it. When we discuss a drawing in class, these are some of the elements of art we can recognize or talk about:
1. Is the image realistic or abstract?
2. Can you talk about color...  Is it soft, bright, or bold?
3. How was the object shaded?
4. Is there an interesting design or composition on the page?
5. Is there a sense of movement?
6. How does the picture make you feel... Are you happy, sad, calm, nervous?
7. What can you say about the subject of the drawing or even the background?

Here are some of the sketches my students brought in when they were asked to draw their favorite thing in their bedroom.

Sketch by Emily

Emily's origami bird is not only beautifully drawn and recognizable, but the way she shaded the drawing makes us really see the delicate creases in the paper and we instantly understand that it is origami. I was impressed not only with the drawing, but with her ability to fold the paper so perfectly!

Sketch by Cynthia

Cynthia focused on her dresser top and vanity mirror, including her self-portrait in the mirror. I love how intently she is staring at her image as she made her drawing. Self portraits are rarely smiling... you draw what you see in your reflection and while you are working, you often have a very serious expression.

Sketch by Vincent

Vincent drew a sketch of his electric guitar. All the details that he included makes us realize just how well he knows his instrument and how much he was able to tell us about it through his drawing. It almost seems to be waiting for someone to pick it up and start playing music!







Emily, Cynthia and Vincent showed us three very different examples of how you could have completed your sketch and I hope they inspire everyone in 5th grade to draw!

These artists would love to hear from you! Please add your own thoughts and reflections about any of these three drawings in the comments box below...