Course Syllabus
BMS Visual Arts for Grades 6-8
Beth M. Wolz, NBCT
Room 404
(919) 496-7700, ext 404
bethwolz@fcschools.net

This is an introductory course for middle school students interested in taking art. It provides intensive work with various drawing skills and media while introducing students to the basic vocabulary of art and design. In this class, we will develop skills in the care and safe use of art supplies and equipment. Students will be introduced to the elements and principles of design and, through work with a variety of tools, media, and processes, develop the students’ abilities to make critical judgments about art. The student will understand and appreciate the influences of art from different areas and time periods in art history. Students will explore various careers in the art field.

In short, the BMS Visual Arts Course Goals, Objective and expected Learning Outcomes are:

Students will receive an introduction and exposure to:

• The vocabulary of art
• The elements and principles of design
• Careers in art
• Art history
• Art mediums such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and graphic design
• Safety in the art classroom, with materials and procedures
• Critiquing and reflecting on their work and the work of their peers
• Working collaboratively with classmates
• Problem solving and critical thinking skills

All lessons are guided by the National and North Carolina Essential Visual Art Standards by grade level.

Just as you have high expectations for me as your teacher, I have high expectations for you as my student.  I expect you to come to class prepared and ready to create original artwork.  You are required to bring a sketchbook, pencil and eraser every day to class--you may leave your sketchbook (or binder/folder with clean white paper) in a special storage shelf in the room.  While you are here, please be responsible with supplies and always be on task so you can do your best work.  If you cannot complete a project or assignment on time, it is your responsibility to speak with me about an extension.  Unexcused or missing work will result in an incomplete or failing grade.  

The art room is a place of mutual respect.  I expect you to treat your peers, your teacher (whether a substitute or me), and yourself with the highest level of respect.  Please be polite and do not put down your artwork or the artwork of another classmate.  If appropriate behavior becomes a challenge for you, we will meet to find a solution.  If necessary, we will include parents and administrators. A series of steps will be taken for negative behavior. If students work and behave as expected a positive note home or other privilege will be given.  

 Effective artists constantly practice their drawing skills in journals or sketchbooks.  As part of the middle school art program, students are required to complete sketchbook assignments as homework.  You will be assigned sketchbook assignments to help you build your creative drawing skills.  Due dates and topics will be clearly posted in the art room and online.    

Art projects and sketch assignments are evaluated using grading rubrics.  Rubrics will focus on concepts I will help you master during the semester.  These include your understanding of art skills/vocabulary,craftsmanship, problem solving, originality/communication, and self-reflection.  Levels of mastery for each concept will be explained in detail during class.  In addition I will be evaluating your use of class time to develop your skills and complete your projects and assignments.  I believe this to be very important in your artistic development.  Grades will be posted via infinite campus.

 Special Expectations:

1. Come to class prepared to work, on time, and with required materials. (Sketchbook and #2 Pencil)
2. Work steadily throughout the class period, turn in completed projects on time. Respect Others and Their Work, Do Not Interfere with another person's art production.
3. Ask 3 before me, then raise handto ask me if you still need help. 
4. Label all work clearly on the back with first name, last name, date and and period.
5. Clean your entire area at the end of the period. Check the floors for trash, put art materials away in designated location. Make sure chairs are pushed in and tables are wiped down if dirty.
6. Absences from school must have a note from home. Extended deadlines on projects will not be given unless this is an excused absence.
7. Follow all Franklin County(Links to an external site.) and BMS Code of Conduct Rules and Regulations (Links to an external site.)
8. NO food, chewing gum, or any liquid (except drinking water in a clear bottle) will be allowed in my classroom.
9. Water bottles must not be played with or tossed. If misused they will be taken and labeled for return to student at end of class period.
10. Student may only leave classroom with teacher permission, signing out on log, using a hall pass, and signing back in.
11. Students are required to listen quietly during lectures and demonstrations, I allow low voices with direct neighbor during drawing time within reason, at my discretion. Work quietly throughout class period. 
12. Stay In Seat, Unless Given Permission To Move About Room for Supplies/Pencil Sharpening.

Consequences for violating classroom rules are consistent with those found in the Franklin County and BMS Code of Conduct Rules and Regulations . Parents will be notified of student’s behavior and resulting consequence which may include, depending on the severity of the violation, a quick verbal reminder of rules, a time-out for refocus, ISS, or OSS.

Grading Procedures:   Formative 40%, Summative 60%

Formative Assessments = 40% of grade

Includes: Classwork such as sketchbook drawing, classroom bookwork, planning sketches, worksheets, discussions and quizzes

Class work grades will include exercises practiced in class leading up to larger projects, writing assignments and other various class assignments. In addition,  the student’s grade will be calculated based on participation grades. These grades will be given based on the student’s ability to participate in class work, follow all class procedures, and remain on task. Students are expected to remain on task for the entire period.

Summative Assessments = 60% of your grade 

Includes: Projects, tests and exams.

The grading of artwork will be divided into two categories: major projects and class work. Projects are the final evaluation of the student’s ability to demonstrate his/her problem-solving skills as well as mastery of the techniques and ideas learned and practiced in class.   

Projects will be graded based upon completion, craftsmanship, and standards. Each project will be given a specific due date. If the student cannot make the due date based on-class work time, he/she will need to take the project home to complete it. If materials cannot be taken home, the student will need to make an appointment to complete the project before and/or after school.