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Art Department

Welcome to the wonderful world of Art! As your child ventures through Pathways offered at Octorara, they may elect to take either one or several Art classes with me, Mrs. Rachel Minnich. Please be aware that the teachers in this department take the subject of Art VERY seriously. The courses that we offer are for those students that are willing to put their heart and soul into it.

 

You should also know that the Octorara Area High School Art Department curriculum is compliant with the Visual and Performing Art state standards; we have a heavy emphasis on developing students'  understanding of the elements of art and the principles of design.

 

Throughout the school year, my Art students will create and analyze artwork using art-specific vocabulary and skills to express their observations. They will also apply artistic processes and skills, working with a broad selection of materials, tools, mediums, and technologies. Daily, they will be challenged and given tips on how to create artwork that is original, meaningful, and self expressive. Through art appreciation activities, they will discover historical, cultural, and biographical insights about artists and societies and expand their worldview and reinforce the importance of diversity. Formal art techniques will be conducted regularly and will require students to analyze, assess, and make interpretations that reflect consideration and thoughtfulness.


We also have collaborative, cross-curricular units developed with teachers from other subject areas (ie: Business Department, English Department) to extend the learning experience beyond the Art classroom. Students will receive art demonstrations from local artists, participate in annual art shows, enter their artwork in competitions, visit the local art galleries to see exhibitions and are given lectures about the numerous art-related careers and art school possibilities they have.

 

This class is part of the Octorara Area Senior High Art Department

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