### 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
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### **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.
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#### **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.