Lesson Plan for Year 11 - Art - Art History (contemporary art)

### Lesson Plan: Art History (Contemporary Art) #### Year Group: Year 11 #### Duration: 90 minutes #### Lesson Objectives: - Understand the key movements and artists in contemporary art. - Critically analyse contemporary artworks. - Develop an appreciation for diverse artistic expressions in contemporary art. - Create a mixed-media piece inspired by contemporary art styles. #### Materials Needed: - Projector and computer with internet access - Whiteboard and markers - A selection of contemporary art images - Art supplies: Sketchbooks, pencils, coloured markers, acrylic paints, brushes, canvas or heavyweight paper - Magazines, newspapers, and other collage materials - Glue, scissors --- ### **Lesson Outline** #### **Introduction (10 mins)** 1. **Greeting and Roll Call:** Teacher greets students and takes attendance. 2. **Introduction to Contemporary Art:** - Briefly explain what contemporary art is and how it differs from traditional and modern art. - Highlight the time period (from the mid-20th century to the present day). #### **Presentation and Discussion (20 mins)** 1. **Key Movements and Artists:** - Use a projector to display images and brief descriptions of key movements in contemporary art (e.g., Pop Art, Minimalism, Conceptual Art, Street Art). - Introduce influential contemporary artists (e.g., Andy Warhol, Banksy, Ai Weiwei, Yayoi Kusama). 2. **Analysis and Discussion:** - Engage students in a discussion about the characteristics of the shown artworks. - Ask open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking (e.g., "What do you think the artist is trying to convey?" "How does this piece make you feel?"). #### **Hands-On Activity (20 mins)** 1. **Sketch and Plan:** - Instruct students to sketch initial ideas in their sketchbooks for a mixed-media piece inspired by one of the contemporary art styles discussed. - Students should consider both visual elements and any underlying messages or themes they wish to convey. #### **Creating the Artwork (30 mins)** 1. **Execution:** - Students create their mixed-media artwork using the provided materials. Encourage them to experiment and combine different techniques (e.g., painting, collage). 2. **Guidance:** - Teacher moves around the classroom offering guidance and constructive feedback. #### **Reflection and Presentation (10 mins)** 1. **Clean-Up:** - Allow time for students to clean up their workspaces. 2. **Reflection:** - Invite a few students to present their artwork to the class. - Ask them to explain their inspiration, process, and any challenges they encountered. 3. **Class Discussion:** - Encourage students to give positive feedback and share what they learned from each other’s presentations. #### **Conclusion (5 mins)** 1. **Recap:** - Summarize the main points of the lesson. - Highlight the importance of contemporary art in reflecting and shaping society. 2. **Homework Assignment:** - Ask students to write a brief reflection (1-2 paragraphs) on their artwork and how it relates to the contemporary art movement they chose. - Optional: Research a contemporary artist not covered in the lesson and prepare a short presentation for the next class. #### **Assessment:** - Informal observation and feedback during the hands-on activity. - Evaluation of students’ reflective writing for understanding and engagement. --- #### **Additional Notes:** - Encourage students to visit contemporary art galleries or engage with online resources to broaden their understanding. - Modify materials and activities to accommodate different learning needs and preferences. - Maintain an inclusive atmosphere where all students feel comfortable expressing their ideas and creativity.