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Browse by Grade: Grade 11

Canada · Ontario Curriculum Expectations

Grade 11 The Arts

This course explores the intersection of technical proficiency and conceptual depth across visual arts, music, dance, and theater. Students engage in advanced creative processes while critically analyzing the social and historical contexts that shape artistic production in Canada and globally.

8 units·70 topics·Ages 16-17

01Visual Narrative and Contemporary Practice

10 topics·Term 1

Exploration of contemporary studio practices with an emphasis on how visual artists communicate complex narratives through mixed media and digital tools.

Elements of Visual Storytelling

Analyzing how line, shape, color, and texture contribute to narrative in visual art.

Gallery WalkThink-Pair-Share
The Power of Symbolism

Investigating how personal and cultural symbols are used to convey meaning beyond the literal representation of objects.

Gallery WalkSocratic Seminar
Narrative through Composition

Exploring principles of composition like balance, emphasis, and movement to construct visual narratives.

Project-Based LearningPeer Teaching
Mixed Media and Materiality

Experimenting with non-traditional materials to add tactile and conceptual layers to two-dimensional works.

Experiential LearningStations Rotation
Digital Tools for Visual Art

Introduction to digital painting, photo manipulation, and graphic design software for artistic expression.

Flipped ClassroomCollaborative Problem-Solving
Public Art and Social Change

Analyzing the role of murals and installation art in addressing social justice issues within local communities.

Concept MappingGallery WalkCarousel Brainstorm
Art and Activism

Examining how artists use their work to advocate for social, environmental, or political causes.

Case Study AnalysisTown Hall MeetingProject-Based Learning
Copyright and Creative Commons

Understanding intellectual property rights, fair use, and open licensing in the context of artistic creation.

Case Study AnalysisFormal DebateDecision Matrix
Street Art and Graffiti Culture

Exploring the history, techniques, and social commentary embedded in street art and graffiti.

Gallery WalkSocratic SeminarGraffiti Wall
The Artist's Statement

Crafting a concise and compelling written statement that articulates an artist's intentions, process, and influences.

RAFT WritingPeer TeachingThink-Pair-Share

02Musical Composition and Soundscapes

9 topics·Term 1

Examining the structures of music theory and the evolution of sound design in contemporary and classical contexts.

Fundamentals of Music Theory

Reviewing basic concepts of pitch, rhythm, melody, and harmony as building blocks for composition.

Stations RotationExperiential Learning
Harmonic Structures and Emotion

Analyzing how chord progressions and harmonic shifts evoke specific psychological responses in the listener.

Case Study AnalysisGallery Walk
Melody and Counterpoint

Exploring the creation of compelling melodies and the art of combining independent melodic lines.

Project-Based LearningPeer Teaching
Rhythm and Cultural Identity

Tracing the origins of polyrhythms and syncopation across global musical traditions.

Peer TeachingExpert PanelJigsaw
Timbre and Orchestration

Investigating the unique sound qualities of different instruments and voices, and how they are combined.

Simulation GameCase Study Analysis
The Art of Sound Design

Exploring the role of non-musical sounds and digital synthesis in creating immersive environments.

Inquiry CircleRole Play
Electronic Music Production

Hands-on introduction to digital audio workstations (DAWs) for composing, arranging, and mixing electronic music.

Project-Based LearningFlipped Classroom
Film Scoring and Emotion

Analyzing how musical scores enhance narrative, build tension, and evoke specific emotions in film.

Case Study AnalysisSimulation GameConcept Mapping
Music and Identity

Exploring how music reflects and shapes individual and collective identities, including subcultures and national identities.

JigsawWorld CaféSocratic Seminar

03Theatrical Performance and Dramaturgy

10 topics·Term 2

Focusing on the technical aspects of acting and the historical development of dramatic structures.

Introduction to Acting Techniques

Exploring fundamental acting principles including stage presence, vocal projection, and physical expression.

Role PlayExperiential Learning
The Method and the Mask

Comparing internal and external approaches to character development and performance.

Role PlayHot Seat
Script Analysis and Subtext

Deconstructing dramatic texts to find the hidden motivations and social commentaries within a play.

Socratic SeminarCase Study Analysis
Dramaturgy and Playwriting

Understanding the structural elements of playwriting and the role of a dramaturg in theatrical production.

Project-Based LearningPeer Teaching
Scenography and Visual Metaphor

Examining how set design, lighting, and costumes contribute to the overall thematic message of a production.

Museum ExhibitGallery WalkConcept Mapping
Directing and Staging

Exploring the director's vision, blocking, and collaboration with actors and designers.

Simulation GameRole Play
Improvisation and Ensemble Building

Developing spontaneity, listening skills, and collaborative storytelling through improvisational exercises.

Experiential LearningCollaborative Problem-Solving
Theater for Social Justice

Examining how theatrical forms like Forum Theatre or Theatre of the Oppressed address social issues.

Role PlayCase Study AnalysisTown Hall Meeting
Voice and Movement for the Stage

Developing vocal techniques (projection, articulation) and physical awareness for effective stage presence.

Experiential LearningRole PlayStations Rotation
Audition Techniques

Practicing and refining audition skills, including monologue selection, cold readings, and stage presence.

Role PlaySimulation GamePeer Teaching

04Choreography and the Moving Body

9 topics·Term 2

Analyzing dance as a medium for communication and the physical principles of movement.

Elements of Dance

Introduction to the fundamental elements of dance: body, action, space, time, and energy.

Experiential LearningStations Rotation
The Geometry of Movement

Understanding how space, levels, and pathways are used to create visual interest in choreography.

Peer TeachingDecision Matrix
Choreographic Devices

Exploring techniques like repetition, canon, retrograde, and inversion to develop dance phrases.

Project-Based LearningCollaborative Problem-Solving
Dance as Cultural Resistance

Investigating how dance forms have been used by marginalized groups to preserve heritage and protest oppression.

Role PlayCase Study AnalysisFishbowl Discussion
Kinesiology and Artistic Longevity

Studying the mechanics of the human body to improve performance and prevent injury in the arts.

Experiential LearningCase Study Analysis
Dance and Technology

Exploring the integration of digital media, projection, and interactive elements in contemporary dance.

Project-Based LearningSimulation Game
Improvisation in Dance

Developing spontaneous movement responses, creative problem-solving, and collaborative dance making.

Experiential LearningThink-Pair-Share
Dance History: Classical Ballet to Modern Dance

Tracing the evolution of Western theatrical dance from its origins to the emergence of modern forms.

Timeline ChallengeGallery WalkSocratic Seminar
World Dance Forms

Exploring diverse dance traditions from around the globe, focusing on their cultural significance and movement characteristics.

JigsawExpert PanelMuseum Exhibit

05Art History and Global Traditions

10 topics·Term 3

A comparative study of art movements and their impact on global culture from the Renaissance to the present.

The Renaissance and the Human Form

Examining the shift toward humanism and perspective in European art and its global influences.

Gallery WalkCase Study AnalysisTimeline Challenge
Baroque and Rococo Art

Exploring the dramatic, ornate, and emotional characteristics of Baroque and the lighter, more playful Rococo styles.

Gallery WalkSocratic Seminar
Indigenous Art and Sovereignty

Exploring the significance of Indigenous artistic traditions in Canada and their role in asserting cultural identity.

Case Study AnalysisExperiential LearningExpert Panel
Art of the Americas (Pre-Columbian to Colonial)

Surveying the rich artistic traditions of Mesoamerican, Andean, and North American Indigenous cultures, and the impact of colonization.

Museum ExhibitJigsawDocument Mystery
Asian Art Traditions (China, Japan, India)

Exploring key artistic movements, philosophies, and techniques from major Asian cultures, including calligraphy, landscape painting, and sculpture.

Gallery WalkCase Study AnalysisPeer Teaching
African Art and Diaspora

Examining the diverse artistic expressions across the African continent, their spiritual and social functions, and their influence on global art.

Expert PanelDocument MysterySocratic Seminar
Modernism and the Break with Tradition

Analyzing the radical shifts in art during the 20th century, from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism.

Four CornersPhilosophical Chairs
Postmodernism and Contemporary Art

Exploring art from the mid-20th century to the present, including Pop Art, Conceptual Art, and performance art.

Formal DebateGallery WalkHexagonal Thinking
Art and Propaganda

Examining how art has been used throughout history to influence public opinion, promote ideologies, and shape political narratives.

Case Study AnalysisDocument MysteryPhilosophical Chairs
The Role of the Patron in Art History

Investigating how patrons (individuals, institutions, governments) have influenced artistic production and movements.

Case Study AnalysisExpert PanelSocratic Seminar

06Artistic Criticism and Curatorial Practice

8 topics·Term 3

Developing the skills to critique artwork professionally and understand the logistics of exhibition and production.

Introduction to Art Criticism

Learning frameworks for analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating artworks across different disciplines.

Socratic SeminarCase Study Analysis
Constructive Critique and Peer Review

Learning formal methods for providing and receiving feedback on creative projects.

Fishbowl DiscussionPeer TeachingChalk Talk
The Ethics of Curation

Investigating how the selection and display of art can reinforce or challenge power structures.

Museum ExhibitFormal DebateCase Study Analysis
Exhibition Design and Installation

Exploring the principles of exhibition layout, lighting, labeling, and audience engagement in gallery spaces.

Project-Based LearningSimulation Game
Art Marketing and Promotion

Understanding strategies for artists to promote their work, build an audience, and engage with the public.

Academic Speed DatingPress Conference
The Business of the Arts

Understanding the economic and professional landscape for artists in the 21st century.

Academic Speed DatingExpert PanelSimulation Game
Grant Writing and Funding for Artists

Learning to identify funding opportunities and write compelling proposals for artistic projects.

Case Study AnalysisLearning Contracts
Art Conservation and Restoration

Exploring the principles and practices of preserving artworks, including ethical considerations and scientific techniques.

Case Study AnalysisExpert PanelDocument Mystery

07Interdisciplinary Arts and Collaboration

7 topics·Term 4

Exploring projects that integrate multiple art forms and foster collaborative creative processes.

Art Across Disciplines

Examining historical and contemporary examples of works that combine visual art, music, dance, and theater.

Gallery WalkCase Study AnalysisConcept Mapping
Performance Art and Happenings

Investigating the history and practice of performance art, where the artist's body and actions are the medium.

Case Study AnalysisSocratic Seminar
Art and Science

Exploring the intersection of artistic inquiry and scientific discovery, from anatomical drawing to data visualization.

Inquiry CircleProject-Based Learning
Art and Technology: Interactive Experiences

Examining how artists use new technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive installations.

Simulation GameProblem-Based Learning
Collaborative Creative Process

Developing strategies for effective teamwork, communication, and shared vision in artistic projects.

Collaborative Problem-SolvingJigsawWorld Café
Site-Specific Art and Environment

Exploring artworks created for a specific location, often engaging with the natural or urban environment.

Project-Based LearningWalk and Talk
Art and Healing

Investigating the therapeutic applications of various art forms and their role in promoting well-being.

Experiential LearningCase Study AnalysisInquiry Circle

08Portfolio Development and Capstone Project

7 topics·Term 4

Guiding students through the process of curating a professional artistic portfolio and developing a culminating interdisciplinary project.

Defining Your Artistic Voice

Reflecting on personal artistic interests, strengths, and thematic concerns to articulate a unique artistic identity.

RAFT WritingThink-Pair-Share
Portfolio Curation and Presentation

Learning to select, document, and present artworks effectively for academic applications or professional opportunities.

Peer TeachingLearning Contracts
Artist Statements and Resumes

Developing professional writing skills for artist statements, bios, and resumes tailored for the arts industry.

Chalk TalkPeer Teaching
Capstone Project: Proposal Development

Brainstorming, researching, and formalizing a proposal for a culminating interdisciplinary arts project.

Inquiry CircleConcept MappingDecision Matrix
Capstone Project: Production and Execution

Implementing the capstone project, managing timelines, resources, and collaborative efforts.

Project-Based LearningCollaborative Problem-Solving
Capstone Project: Presentation and Reflection

Presenting the completed capstone project to an audience and engaging in critical self-reflection.

Museum ExhibitSocratic SeminarHot Seat
Networking in the Arts

Developing strategies for connecting with other artists, mentors, and professionals in the arts community.

Academic Speed DatingExpert PanelPress Conference