Impressionism Lesson Plan for 7th Grade Example Students

Topic: Impressionism

Objectives & Outcomes

• Students will be able to explain the significance of Impressionism to the history of art and its impact on later art movements.

Materials

• Images of works by Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir
• Handouts with information on the context and key themes of Impressionism
• Art supplies such as watercolors and pencils so that students can create their own Impressionist artwork

Introduction

• Begin by asking students what they know about Impressionism. What are some of the artists who are considered to be Impressionists?
• Ask students to share any artwork they have seen that is labeled as Impressionist. What stands out to them about these paintings?
• Explain that Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in France in the late 19th century. It is named after the term "impression," which was used to describe the fleeting, momentary impressions that the artist saw and tried to capture on canvas.

Direct Instruction

• Introduce the key concepts of Impressionism, such as the use of vibrant colors, the emphasis on light and color, and the importance of the artist's spontaneous and immediate response to a scene.
• Discuss some of the artists and works that are considered to be representative of Impressionism, such as Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Georges Seurat.
• Show students some examples of Impressionist artwork and have them take notes on the use of color, the overall composition of the painting, and any other elements that stand out to them.

Guided Practice

• Have students work in pairs to analyze a specific Impressionist artwork, taking note of the key elements discussed in the direct instruction segment.
• Have each pair present their findings to the class and discuss any differences or similarities in their observations.
• As a class, create a visual representation of the key characteristics of Impressionism, such as a chart or infographic that lists the key concepts and artists.

Independent Practice

• Have students choose a specific artist or artwork from the Impressionist period to research in-depth.
• Have students create a presentation or poster on their chosen artist, including information on the artist's life and key works, as well as the key elements of Impressionism seen in the artist's work.

Closure:

• Have students reflect on what they have learned about Impressionism and its importance to art.
• Have students share their presentations or posters with the class.

Assessment:

• Observe students during the independent practice activity and provide feedback on their understanding of Impressionism and its importance to art.
• Evaluate the presentations or posters created during the independent practice activity and provide feedback on their use of artistic media, aesthetic appeal, and effectiveness in communicating their understanding of Impressionism and its importance to art.