United States · Common Core State Standards
5th Grade Visual & Performing Arts
This course explores the intersection of visual arts, music, theater, and dance through a lens of personal expression and cultural context. Students develop technical skills while learning to analyze and critique diverse artistic works using formal vocabulary.
Visual Narrative and Studio Practice
Students explore how visual artists communicate stories and emotions through choice of medium and composition.
Introduction to one point perspective and how artists create the illusion of depth on a flat surface.
Analyzing the psychological effects of color schemes and their application in expressive painting.
Combining traditional drawing with found objects to create three dimensional narratives.
Rhythm, Melody, and Musical Structure
An investigation into how musical elements combine to create complex compositions across genres.
Understanding musical form including verse, chorus, and bridge in contemporary and classical music.
Exploring polyrhythms and the cultural significance of percussion instruments from around the world.
Using technology to layer sounds and create original digital musical works.
Theatrical Expression and Character
Students develop performance skills through improvisation, script analysis, and technical theater.
Exploring physical and vocal techniques to portray diverse characters on stage.
Learning the fundamental rules of improv to build spontaneous scenes and ensemble trust.
Understanding how lighting, sets, and costumes support the narrative of a play.
Movement and Choreography
An exploration of dance as a medium for communication and the study of various dance traditions.
Focusing on space, time, force, and body as the building blocks of choreography.
Investigating the history and steps of traditional folk and social dances.
Working in small groups to create original movement sequences that convey a specific theme.
Art History and Criticism
Students learn to analyze artworks from different eras and cultures using a formal critique process.
Developing the vocabulary to describe, analyze, interpret, and judge works of art.
Examining how artists throughout history have used their work to influence public opinion or highlight issues.
Students act as museum curators to organize a thematic exhibition of diverse artworks.