Dear Middle School Students and Parents, Beginning second quarter, one project will be required of each student per quarter. Three projects will be introduced along with the artists that inspired them, examples will be displayed as well as the instructions needed to fulfill expectations and the children will choose one as the required assignment. A second project will be accepted for extra credit. Both the required project and the extra credit project will be given a due date. Projects handed in late receive no credit. I would like to take this opportunity to share the purpose of the art program at Holy Apostles School. I feel art is highly experiential, therefore, I have enjoyed giving the children a wide range of materials and media in which they create their own interpretation of art. Some projects are imitations of work done by various artists and some teach the elements of art. A typical art class is 45 minutes in length. In that time, children arrive and get settled, get out the materials we are using, receive instruction, work on the assignment, clean up and go on to the next class. Thus, it takes time to complete each project that we do in school. Our curriculum includes concepts of art history, cultural art and art appreciation. To expand experiences in cultural art and art history, at the beginning of each quarter I introduce three projects to the class. Each student chooses the project that interests him or her the most. Artists are introduced along with a short talk about his or her impact on the world through art, background and style. I then show examples of work and give verbal instructions of how to successfully complete this project. The beautiful thing is that I allow the students freedom to create a personal work of art because I do not place perameters on their work. I want the students to let the creative side of their brains loose. A positive side to working at home is that children are not bound by time restraints placed on them in a classroom setting, allowing the art work to take shape in its own manner and time frame. Working on art privately also allows children to take chances and critique their own work. It also provides time to change gears and go a different direction without falling behind the group. The home study projects are not meant to be expensive or require parental help. Parents can help make these assignments enjoyable by talking with the children about what they are going to create soon after the introduction has been made. Be enthusiastic and encourage your child to take ownership of his or her work. Talk about ideas that would make a great finished product. Look to the internet for pictures for inspiration. If purchasing supplies is financially burdensome, please have the students see me and I will try to help out with materials. I have been told by several parents that home study work is completed by the parents. Please understand that I have no recourse in that situation but to grade the work at face value. I urge all parents to allow your children to experience the creation of a work of art without interference. Please critique the work if you choose with suggestions to better the piece. “You forgot the ears”, or “the background is too pale” for example. If sewing is required supply a needle and a thread, if paper mache is needed mix flour and water or glue and water. Projects are graded on several levels, the first is neatness-work that has been done carefully has overall appeal. Secondly, following directions is important, though, most projects have few required features. Finally, the overall appearance and originality is considered. Keep in mind that grading is subjective and can be a difficult task. As always, I appreciate the support I have received from many parents and I truly enjoy spending time with your children as they grow. Sincerely, Mrs. Radermacher