Art - Exemplification in subjects - A Coherent Pedagogy for Secondary Schools

Art
An Art Lesson in Key Stage 3

When pupils arrive they are directed to sit in their designated seats. All unnecessary equipment is placed under tables to leave work surfaces clear in preparation for the practical activity.

The lesson should start immediately. This may begin with a fast paced question and answer session to engage all pupils and focus the whole class on prior learning.

The teacher introduces the main part of the session by explaining the lesson objectives in terms of what the pupils will learn rather than what they will do.

Pupils are made aware of why the learning objectives are important within the context of the extended project.

The teacher presents the objectives using appropriate language which ensures that pupils are clear about the learning that is to take place. Visual stimulus materials are presented and pupils are introduced to key vocabulary.

Key words are recorded in student sketchbooks to provide pupils with a permanent reference. During the main part of the lesson the teacher will use strategies that promote pupil understanding and the development of technical skills.

Demonstration, modelling, questioning, listening and discussion will assist pupils in their learning. Lessons may be episodic to allow learning to move forward systematically in small steps.

Pupils will be aware of what episode they are engaged in and how it relates to the lesson objectives. During whole class demonstration(s), pupils are organised around a central work area.

Pupils have clear sight lines, are focused on the demonstration activity and listen attentively to the teacher and each other.

Speaking and listening is used in conjunction with practical demonstration. The teacher uses key vocabulary throughout the demonstration to support learning. Pupils are respectful of each other's contributions and are secure in the knowledge that they can contribute without worrying whether they are 'right' or not.

As pupils move into the next phase of the lesson they are able to put into practice what has been demonstrated in the whole class phase.

All pupils know exactly what is expected of them as they begin to work independently, in pairs or small groups.

Initially the teacher will move from table to table to ensure pupils have the correct equipment and that the practical activity is underway.

The teacher's role at this time is to assess pupils' understanding, level of practical skill and progress.This will be done through observing, questioning and listening. A number of pupils will be able to work without further teacher intervention.

Pupils in need of guidance are identified and supported in their learning. The practical activity is drawn to a close leaving sufficient time for pupils to clean and return art equipment and clear work surfaces.

The teacher concludes the lesson by refocusing pupils on the learning that has taken place.

The artwork of a small number of pupils is displayed. The teacher uses exemplar work to refocus pupils on the learning objectives and to discuss the outcomes. Visual evidence, questioning and pupil feedback enables the teacher to establish whether the objectives have been met.

Pupils are able to reflect on what has been learnt whilst the teacher is able to make an assessment of their learning in order to inform future planning.

Homework is set on a regular basis to reinforce and consolidate learning or prepare for future lessons.