### Lesson Plan: Creative Expression in Art
**Grade Level:** Year 7
**Subject:** Art
**Duration:** 90 minutes
**Lesson Topic:** Creative Expression
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#### Objectives:
1. **Knowledge:** Understand the concept of creative expression in art.
2. **Skills:** Develop and apply various artistic techniques to express personal creativity.
3. **Attitudes:** Appreciate the value of individual creativity and the uniqueness of each person's artistic expression.
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#### Materials:
- Sketchbooks or drawing paper
- Pencils, erasers, and sharpeners
- Colored pencils, markers, and crayons
- Paints (watercolors, acrylics) and brushes
- Art references (pictures or slides of famous works of art focusing on creativity)
- Chart paper and markers
- Reflection journals
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#### Lesson Outline:
##### **1. Introduction (15 minutes)**
- **Ice Breaker Activity:**
- Begin with a quick, fun drawing exercise where students draw something abstract using only shapes and lines.
- **Discussion:**
- Introduce the concept of creative expression.
- Show examples of famous artworks (e.g., Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo) that exemplify unique creative styles.
- Discuss how these artists express emotions, ideas, and stories through their work.
##### **2. Guided Practice (20 minutes)**
- **Brainstorming Session:**
- Break students into small groups and provide chart paper and markers.
- Ask each group to brainstorm and list down ideas/topics they feel passionate about or themes they think represent who they are.
- Each group shares their ideas with the class.
##### **3. Main Activity: Creative Expression Project (40 minutes)**
- **Instructions:**
- Students will create an artwork that expresses their personal identity, feelings, or interests using the medium of their choice—drawing, painting, or mixed media.
- Encourage students to think about colors, shapes, and styles that best express their individuality.
- **Art Creation:**
- Provide students with materials and facilitate where needed, encouraging them to explore and be innovative.
##### **4. Sharing and Reflection (15 minutes)**
- **Gallery Walk:**
- Display students’ work around the classroom.
- Allow students to walk around and view each other’s artwork.
- **Reflection:**
- Have students sit in a circle and use their reflection journals to write about their work:
- What inspired their art?
- How did they feel during the creative process?
- What did they learn from this experience?
##### **5. Closing (5 minutes)**
- **Wrap-Up Discussion:**
- Summarize key points about creative expression.
- Highlight the importance of individuality in art.
- Encourage students to explore creativity in their daily lives and celebrate their uniqueness.
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#### Assessment:
- **Formative Assessment:**
- Observe student participation during discussions and activities.
- Provide feedback and support during the brainstorming and creation phases.
- **Summative Assessment:**
- Evaluate the final artwork based on effort, creativity, and personal expression.
- Review reflection journal entries to gauge understanding and personal insights.
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#### Homework:
- **Optional Extension Activity:**
- Ask students to create a mini-portfolio of three additional artworks that explore different aspects of their identity or interests, to be shared in a future class.
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### Notes:
- Ensure a positive and encouraging environment where all forms of expression are valued and respected.
- Provide additional support and materials for students who may need them.
- Consider incorporating digital tools or apps for students interested in digital art.
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#### Additional Resources:
- **Books:**
- "The Art Book for Children" by Phaidon Editors
- "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" by Betty Edwards
- **Online:**
- Khan Academy Art History
- Google Arts & Culture
By fostering a supportive and open-minded classroom environment, this lesson aims to empower students with the confidence to express themselves creatively and appreciate the diversity of artistic expression.