In our visual arts study, Learning about Point of View and Your Point of View, children have engaged in art experiences in order to build understanding of place through direct involvement in the landscape of their community. Through observation of their surroundings, the students gained practice to allow them to move beyond personal depictions of their world.

Students learned about the rules of one-point perspective as well as birds-eye view, coming towards you view and a close up or ant's eye view. By establishing a horizon line and a vanishing point, they practiced drawing three dimensional objects for viewing accurately on a two dimensional piece of paper. By taking pictures of their local environment, students have demonstrated their understanding of point of view. As a means to encourage them to develop more complete and exact imagery, students have used their photos as references to guide their work to draw a locale from different point of view.

Students worked to depict their local environment using three points of view: looking down, at the horizon, and looking up. They have experimented with patterns, rhythms and textures they observed in both the urban and natural environment of their community. Using a variety of lines, marks and tones they have produced conte drawings, collages and sketches. As part of the reflective habit of lifelong learners, they have described how using different points of view affects understanding of a place.

Student Art

This Visual Arts unit was done parallel with our Social Studies strand: Canada and the World. Having learned about the diverse geographical regions of our country, students worked alone and in groups, using the elements of visual arts design addressed in this unit, to create art.

The goal of our study has been to develop artistic skills as students explore and create art as they focus on symmetry, texture, colour, foreground, middle ground and background.

Students have worked alone and in groups, using the elements of visual art design addressed in this unit, to create artwork inspired from their study of the Physical Regions of Canada.

The students have used art tools, materials, and techniques to create different effects. They have worked to identify strengths and areas for improvement in their own and other’s artwork. Skill in describing the distinguishing physical features of regions within the provinces and territories of Canada was applied during this study.  

Students have demonstrated knowledge of the colour wheel by experimenting with primary and secondary colours while using a variety of art tools. They have learned about background, middle ground and foreground concepts in drawing, collage and painting.

Students have enhanced their reflective and creative thinking skills to evaluate situations and solve problems. Through engagement in this visual arts unit, participants have had opportunity to develop as a self-directed, responsible, lifelong learner. Students have applied effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, as well as time and resource management skills.