Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
1st Class Creative Journeys: Exploring Art and Design
This course introduces 1st Class students to the fundamental elements of art through hands-on making and responding. Students explore diverse media including paint, clay, and textiles while developing their visual literacy and creative expression.
Lines, Shapes, and Imaginary Worlds
Students explore the building blocks of drawing and how different lines can express emotions or create textures.
Investigating how different types of lines like wavy, zigzag, and thick lines can tell a story.
Distinguishing between perfect mathematical shapes and the irregular shapes found in nature.
Using mirrors and observation to create a representation of oneself using line and shape.
Color Magic and Paint
An exploration of color mixing, temperature, and the tactile nature of applying paint to surfaces.
Discovering how the three primary colors act as the parents for all other colors.
Using color temperature to depict different climates and times of day in a landscape.
Adding materials to paint or using different tools to create physical depth on the page.
Form and Sculpture
Moving from 2D to 3D by manipulating clay and recycled materials to create objects.
Learning basic clay techniques like pinching and coiling to create small animals.
Using cardboard and found objects to build towers and imaginative buildings.
Patterns and Textiles
Investigating the world of fabric, weaving, and repeating patterns in art and design.
An introduction to the over and under rhythm of basic paper and wool weaving.
Using stamps and found objects to create repeating designs on fabric or paper.
Creating pictures by layering different textures and types of fabric.
The Artist's Eye
Developing the skills to look closely at famous artworks and respond through discussion and creation.
Looking at narrative paintings and identifying the characters, setting, and plot.
Understanding how art is displayed and how to behave as a respectful critic.
Choosing a work of art to analyze and creating a personal response piece.