Visual Arts Grade 1

Throughout the year, Grade 1 students engage in a vertically aligned journey of artistic discovery that prioritizes identity, cultural relevancy, and the joy of creative play. The curriculum progresses from “The Art of Discovery,” which establishes the art studio as a safe space for material exploration and experimentation , to “Express Yourself,” where students learn to use art elements like a language to communicate personal feelings and moods. This expressive foundation transitions into “Eyes Wide Open,” challenging students to use careful observation and intentional choices—such as scale and surprise placement—to guide a viewer's attention. Finally, the year culminates in “The Language of Art,” where students synthesize these skills to tell complex stories and honor diverse cultural traditions. Students connect with global and local heritage through the study of artists like Alma Thomas, Faith Ringgold, Isamu Noguchi, and Joan Miró, often utilizing resources from the Ryan Learning Center at the Art Institute of Chicago. By rotating through diverse pathways—including painting, photomontage, 3D paper construction, and clay modeling—students develop fine motor control and technical proficiency while internalizing the habit of revision. Ultimately, the curriculum fosters a joyful, inclusive community where young artists find their voices, celebrate their unique lived experiences, and present their work with confidence in collaborative gallery showcases.

Units

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