8th Grade Art: the year at a glance
6 units · 16 lessons · based on National Core Arts Standards — Visual Arts (grade band 6–8). Every unit ends with a review & assessment day.
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Unit 1: Elements & principles of design VA:Cr1.2
Apply elements and principles of design intentionally
- Elements of art reviewVA:Cr1.2
- Principles of designVA:Re8.1
- Design challengeVA:Cr1.1
- Review & assessment
Unit 2: Drawing & painting VA:Cr2.1
Develop observational drawing and painting skills
- Proportion and portraitsVA:Cr2.1
- Two-point perspectiveVA:Cr2.1
- Watercolor techniquesVA:Cr2.1
- Review & assessment
Unit 3: Digital art & graphic design VA:Cr2.3
Create digital images · Design for a purpose
- Graphic design basicsVA:Cr2.3
- Photo compositionVA:Cr2.1
- Poster for a causeVA:Cn10.1
- Review & assessment
Unit 4: Art history & movements VA:Cn11.1
Compare art movements · Connect art to its historical context
- Renaissance to ImpressionismVA:Cn11.1
- Modern art movementsVA:Re7.2
- American artistsVA:Cn11.1
- Review & assessment
Unit 5: Sculpture & mixed media VA:Cr2.1
Create three-dimensional work with intent
- Additive and subtractive sculptureVA:Cr2.1
- Mixed-media projectVA:Cr1.1
- Review & assessment
Unit 6: Portfolio & exhibition VA:Pr6.1
Curate a portfolio · Reflect on growth as an artist
- Portfolio reviewVA:Pr4.1
- ExhibitionVA:Pr6.1
- Review & assessment