Designed to integrate academic subjects into the arts classroom, the AACMS Visual Arts program develops our student artists’ technical skills in a variety of artistic media, while studying the cultural and historical context of artwork from the past and present. Extended class periods of 90 to 150 minutes give our teachers the flexibility to incorporate a wide array of projects into their instruction, and to give students the time necessary to explore their artistic passions.  

Each grade level focuses on specific types of artwork, with an emphasis on the academic side of art education, as well as technical skill development. In addition to developing their technique, students learn to express their ideas through writing, peer critiques, and self-reflection. Learning appropriate art vocabulary, researching contemporary art and art history, and presenting their ideas in front of their peers are all important focuses of each year. 

Fifth Grade
During Visual Arts Workshop, fifth grade students learn basic Visual Art skills and vocabulary. The course encourages students to connect their work in the visual arts to their academic studies with projects aligned to the academic curriculum. The Visual Arts Workshop also collaborates with other fifth grade workshops on the annual Fifth Grade Arts Showcase, with the student artists creating set pieces and props for the performance. The curriculum is geared to open students’ imagination, vision, hand skill sets and prepare them for future art classes. Classes discuss art movements, various artists, and how they influence the work the students will be making. Students learn proper use of materials and how they can be combined to provide optimal usage.

Sixth Grade
Sixth Grade Visual Arts provides students with a strong foundation in the vocabulary, techniques, and critical thinking skills necessary for continued study in the visual arts. Beginning with the basics, students learn and apply the Elements of Art while developing their drawing, observation, craftsmanship, and creative problem-solving skills. The goal of sixth grade is to build a strong set of foundational skills that students can continue to develop as they progress into seventh and eighth grade.

Throughout the year, students are introduced to a variety of artists, art movements, and artistic techniques, exploring how these influences can shape and inspire their own artwork. Students also learn how to reflect on and write about their completed artwork through artist statements. Projects throughout the year provide opportunities to develop skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture, while encouraging students to experiment, build confidence, and develop their own artistic voice.

Seventh Grade
Seventh Grade Visual Arts builds upon the foundational skills developed in sixth grade, with students continuing to strengthen their understanding and application of the Elements of Art, Principles of Design, and relevant visual arts vocabulary. Students are introduced to new artists, art movements, techniques, and concepts while developing greater independence, attention to detail, and higher artistic standards. The goal of seventh grade is to further develop students' technical and creative skills while preparing them for the more advanced expectations of eighth-grade Visual Arts.

At the beginning of the school year, students focus on creating high-quality artwork in black and white through about two months of drawing training. Several related projects help students build their confidence while learning to hold themselves to a high artistic standard. As the year progresses, students move into printmaking, painting, and sculpture, continuing to apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design through a variety of media and techniques. Students explore art history and the work of important artists in connection with the concepts, techniques, and projects they are studying and creating.

An additional focus of seventh grade is introducing students to the concept of an art portfolio and the importance of documenting and developing a strong body of artwork. While portfolio expectations become more advanced and significant in eighth grade, seventh-grade students begin developing the skills, habits, and understanding necessary to successfully build a portfolio the following year. Throughout the year, students write artist statements about their completed work, reflecting on their artistic choices, processes, and ideas. By the end of seventh grade, students have expanded their technical abilities, strengthened their understanding of art concepts and history, and developed a stronger foundation for the advanced portfolio work expected in eighth grade.

Eighth Grade
Eighth Grade Visual Arts is designed to prepare students for continued study in the visual arts at the high school level and beyond. The curriculum centers around developing a high-quality physical and digital portfolio that students can be proud to present for high school auditions, interviews, and other opportunities. Students are expected to demonstrate the technical skills, creativity, craftsmanship, and understanding of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design that they have developed throughout their Visual Arts experience.

The school year begins with an intensive focus on portfolio development and audition preparation. Students work primarily on building and refining the required pieces for their portfolio, including still life drawings, self-portraits, and creative works. Through extended instructional periods, students have the opportunity to work in depth, receiving instruction and feedback as they develop their pieces. Students also learn about the expectations and purpose of an art portfolio and how to thoughtfully select, develop, and present artwork that represents their abilities and artistic interests.

After completing their audition and portfolio requirements, students begin to explore more creative and independent approaches to painting, sculpture, and other artistic media. Projects encourage students to experiment with techniques, develop original ideas, and make thoughtful artistic choices while continuing to apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design.

Throughout the year, students continue to study art history, art criticism, and contemporary and historical artists in connection with their studio work. Students participate in peer critiques and self-reflections, learning how to discuss their artwork, explain their artistic choices, and provide and respond to constructive feedback. Students also write about their completed artwork, strengthening their ability to communicate their ideas and creative process both verbally and in writing. By the end of eighth grade, students have developed a substantial body of work and the skills necessary to continue their artistic education with greater independence and confidence.
 

AACMS hosts its Visual Arts Showcase each May, exhibiting work completed by all of our students throughout the school year. AACMS also highlights student artwork at school events and on school social media. Visual Arts students contribute artwork for student showcase posters, program covers, t-shirt designs, and more.  

Teachers encourage students to submit artwork to competitions, contests, local galleries, and community outreach programs. Our students have previously earned Scholastic Arts and Writing Awards and participated in exhibitions at Kutztown University and the Banana Factory in Bethlehem.