I have created a visual arts curriculum based on the principles and practices of the nationally recognized and researched Choice-Based Art Education and Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB). The curriculum meets the Michigan Content Standards and Benchmarks and regards students as artists, offering them real choices for responding to their own ideas and interests through the making of art.
What does this mean?

In
many typical art programs, the
students follow step-by-step
instructions to complete a very
specific project. In a
choice-based art classroom,
there is no prescribed project.
Instead, as the art expert, I
offer guidance, suggestions,
resources and demonstrations for
supplies, techniques and art
history. The students are free
to make their own choices
concerning subject matter and
materials. Through independence
and responsibility, students are
taught and expected to create
original works of art based on
their own ideas and interests.
They are also required to take
care of the studio space and
supplies, which are available to
all students. This approach
promotes understanding,
knowledge, skills and student
interest.
What are the
benefits of Choice-Based Art
Education?

- Students are highly invested in their work because it reflects their personal interests and style; therefore, they take ownership of their learning.
- Students are empowered by the autonomy in the art studio.
- Choice-based art education is perfect for today's diverse classes and the move toward differentiated instruction.
- Students are exposed to an enormous variety of ideas, techniques, vocabulary, cultures and artists throughout the year.
- Much of the teaching is individualized because it exposes the teacher to what is really happening in the minds and lives of students which allows us to learn about each other in a safe and caring environment.
How does the Art Studio work?
The Art Studio is arranged into
carefully organized centers to
promote student responsibility,
self reliance, and creative
exploration. These centers are
divided by media or subject
matter and are opened
methodically throughout the
school year. Over the course of
the year as students' abilities,
confidence and independence
develop, new and more complex
techniques and supplies are
introduced. After the student
completes a work of art, an
artist statement will be written
in order to reflect on the
art-making process.

Assessment and Evaluation
Each student is evaluated individually in terms of student growth and progress towards the objectives. Progress reporting is based on the compilation of assessment forms. An Art Progress Report is a one-page document that gives information about activities the student has finished and how they are progressing towards the Michigan Visual Arts Standards and Benchmarks.
