Congratulations! You’ve almost made it through another school year, instilling in another batch of students a love of art that will last them their entire lives. Honor the work you’ve all put into this year’s projects with an intentional end-of-year wrap up.
Revisit Lessons Learned
Your students have learned so much this year. Make a list of the terminology and definitions they’ve mastered. Discuss the various processes and techniques they tried. Revisit the types of projects they completed throughout the year and the different materials they used. Review the rules of smart art supplies maintenance (respect the tools: rinse brushes immediately, secure caps back on bottles, etc.). They’ll be surprised to see just how much they accomplished in the art room!
Returning Portfolios
You’ve likely been keeping portfolios for each student all year. Before you return them to your students, take a peek through each one, photographing any particularly impressive work for your files and include a note of praise in each, noting accomplishments in technique or creativity. Then, allocate a class period to returning the portfolios to your students. Ask that they select one piece of which they are particularly proud, and talk to the class about it. Check out our blog post, “3 Ways to Help Your Students Talk About Their Artwork” for tips to encourage a lively discussion.
Keeping in Touch
Art brings students together in a unique way, providing a common interest and unique perspective. Oftentimes this creates student relationships that may not have occurred outside the studio. Help your students stay in touch with their artistic peers by providing end-of-year class time to share contact information.
There may also be a few students whose progress you’d like to continue to track. Consider creating a hashtag for yourself, such as #MrsJonesArtTeacher and asking students to tag you on any art they post on social media so you can stay abreast of their work.
Congratulations on another year of amazing art and inspired teaching! Do you have any end-of-year traditions to share? Let us know in the comments below.
