### Lesson Plan: Art History (Medieval to Renaissance) - Year 7
#### Overview:
This lesson plan is designed to give Year 7 students an understanding of the evolution of art from the Medieval period to the Renaissance. The lesson will cover key features, important artists, and notable artworks from these periods. Students will also engage in a practical art activity inspired by the Renaissance art techniques.
#### Duration:
2 hours
#### Objectives:
- Understand the characteristics and differences between Medieval and Renaissance art.
- Identify key artists and artworks from both periods.
- Develop an appreciation for the cultural and historical context of these art movements.
- Create a piece of art using techniques inspired by Renaissance artists.
#### Materials Needed:
- Projector/Computer for slideshow presentation
- Handouts with summaries of key points
- Art supplies: paper, pencils, erasers, paint, brushes
- Reproductions of Medieval and Renaissance artworks for reference
- Classroom board and markers
#### Lesson Structure:
1. **Introduction (10 minutes):**
- Briefly introduce the topic and objectives of the lesson.
- Discuss the significance of Art History and how it helps us understand past cultures and societies.
2. **Presentation: Medieval Art (20 minutes):**
- Show images of Medieval art (e.g., illuminated manuscripts, church murals).
- Discuss key characteristics: religious themes, flat figures, lack of perspective, use of gold.
- Highlight important artworks and artists, such as the Lindisfarne Gospels and Giotto di Bondone.
- Engage students with questions like: What stands out to you in these artworks? Why do you think religious themes were so prominent?
3. **Presentation: Renaissance Art (20 minutes):**
- Show images of Renaissance art (e.g., works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael).
- Discuss key characteristics: use of perspective, emphasis on humanism, realistic proportions, use of light and shadow.
- Highlight important artworks and artists, such as the "Mona Lisa," "The Last Supper," and Michelangelo's "David."
- Encourage students to compare and contrast with Medieval art through questioning: How do these artworks differ from Medieval ones? What new techniques can you identify?
4. **Group Discussion (15 minutes):**
- Divide students into small groups and provide handouts summarising key points from Medieval and Renaissance periods.
- Ask groups to create a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting Medieval and Renaissance art.
- Each group presents their findings briefly.
5. **Practical Activity: Create a Renaissance-Inspired Artwork (50 minutes):**
- Explain that students will create a piece of art inspired by Renaissance techniques.
- Provide a brief demo on techniques like perspective drawing and chiaroscuro (light/dark contrast).
- Allow students to sketch their ideas and then paint their artworks.
- Walk around to provide guidance and encourage creativity.
6. **Reflection and Sharing (15 minutes):**
- Once the practical activity is completed, ask students to display their artwork.
- Each student shares the story behind their artwork and the techniques they used.
- Encourage positive feedback and discussion about the created artworks.
7. **Conclusion (10 minutes):**
- Summarise the key points learned about Medieval and Renaissance art.
- Highlight the importance of these periods in the history of art and their influence on modern-day art.
- Assign a homework project: write a short essay on their favourite artist from the Renaissance and explain why they find their work inspiring.
#### Assessment:
- Participation in group discussions.
- Engagement and creativity during the practical activity.
- Quality and presentation of the final artwork.
- Completion of the homework essay.
#### Additional Resources:
- Books: "The Story of Art" by E.H. Gombrich, "Art: A World History" by Elke Linda Buchholz.
- Online resources: The National Gallery website, the Khan Academy Art History section.
By the end of the lesson, students will have a foundational understanding of the artistic transition from the Medieval to the Renaissance period, enriched by a hands-on experience in Renaissance art techniques.