Arts

Art instruction at ÉVA is scheduled for all students in grades 5 and 6 and is offered as an option in grades 7 and 8.  The program offers students the opportunity to creatively express themselves while increasing their visual literacy.  All students will create art, learning techniques such as drawing, painting and sculpting in a variety of mediums, including pencil, watercolor, acrylic paint, fiber, recycled materials and clay. 

Students will learn how to identify and apply the Elements of Art -- line, shape, space, form, texture and color -- and the Principles of Design -- balance, emphasis, movement, pattern, repetition, proportion, rhythm, variety and unity. They will be required to design visually pleasing works of art using the elements and principles to demonstrate their understanding.

Another important part of the artistic experience is reflection.  Students will generate written and oral evaluations of their own artwork and that of their fellow students. These evaluations require students to discuss the artwork using appropriate terminology in French.

Throughout the year, students will have opportunities to display their art in the hallways, at concerts and at the divisional art show Sight Unseen. Art classes in middle schools are more than just craft projects meant to fill the hours or give students some in-class down time. According to the National Art Education Association’s “National Visual Arts Standards” for grades 5 through 8, a well-rounded visual arts program teaches technique, terminology, history, appreciation and critiquing skills.