Lesson Plan Title : Drawing is a Verb

Overview and Purpose: Introduction to Line, Shape and Composition. Vocabulary: Line, Shape, diagonal, vertical, horizontal, composition, perpendicular, parallel, subjective.

Objectives:

1. Realize that creating and observing art is a subjective process

2. Familiarize themselves with the dexterity required to make lines

3. Use a variety of lines to make a unique composition

Resources:

Blank white copy paper, pencils, erasers. Electronic or hard-copy of Kandinsky's "Blau (Abstract Composition)"

Methods

Introduction:

1. Explain that there are different types of lines and shapes.

2. Ask students leading questions for different words that could be used to describe line: thick, thin, curvy, straight, dotted, fast, slow, shaky, zig-zag, curly. Additionally discuss how line can be used to crate a shape, as in circles, squares and triangles.

Engagement:

1. Discuss ways in which these lines might be interpreted or in what contexts these lines might be seen.

2. Draw lines on board while explaining the different gestures/dexterity required

Class Practice:

1. Students will be given a successive series of ten verbs and adjectives, and will draw lines and shapes based on these commands. Examples include, "Draw a curved line in the bottom left of your paper," "Connect two shapes with a thin, shaky line," and "Erase half of one shape."

2. Use Kandinsky's "Blau (Abstract Composition) as a basis for description and directions, but do not allow students to see it until after all the commands have been given.

3. Students will then place all unique compositions on the wall to discuss the differences and similarities.

4. Students will then use these beginning sketches as a basis for an abstract composition.

5. Bridge to hatching, cross-hatching and value.

Learning Checkup:

1. Review types of line

2. Review dexterity and technique issues: pressure, tactility, manipulation.

3. Explain subjectivity in art

Wrap Up:

1. Ask students leading questions about Kandinsky's work

2. Ask students to consider line and shape in relation to visual culture.