Author: Paris Gu

How we express ourselves

Year 1
Nov 2015

An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic.

Lines of Inquiry
The focus of our inquiry will be:
An inquiry into the elements of art.
An inquiry into the different ways artists have used the elements of art.
An inquiry into how we can express our ideas using the elements of the arts.

Teacher Questions
What is art?
How do we create art?
Why do we create art?

We can express our ideas through the elements of art.

Concepts
Form: Why is it like it is?
Perspective: What are the points of view?
Related Concepts
Interpretation, Imagination and Techniques

PYP Learner Profiles
Communicator: I talk about my ideas and listen to the ideas of others. I work well with others.
Reflective: I think about my actions. I see mistakes as a way to learn and think of ways I can do better.

Suggested Vocabulary

art / communicator / pattern	express / appreciation / idea	line / form / creativity	colour / reflective / shape

Transdisciplinary Skills: These skills are developed through the unit.
Self-Management Skills: Fine motor skills: Ability to control little movements (cutting out, neat handwriting, painting) Time management: Being able to complete given tasks on time and get things done.
Communication Skills: Accepting responsibility: Taking on and completing tasks in an appropriate manner, being willing to accept a share of the responsibility. Viewing: Being able to understand the ways images/media and language work together to communicate meaning. Presenting: Construct visuals and multimedia that successfully communicate ideas and information. Cooperating: Working cooperatively in a group; being courteous to others; sharing materials; taking turns.

How does Arabic, Social Studies & Islamic Studies support our
understanding of this unit?
In Arabic language lessons, students will begin to develop language to help explore the different areas of the Unit of Inquiry.
This may include games, songs, stories and role plays to develop an understanding of art elements and of how we express ourselves
In Islamic Studies and Social Studies, students will explore the Transdisciplinary Theme of How we express ourselves.

Parents can help support learning at home in various ways:
Discussing the vocabulary being introduced in the Unit of Inquiry
Discussing home learning investigations
Discussing new learning each week with your child
Help research in your home language
Encourage further inquiry when possible
Encourage creativity at home by keeping a personal sketchbook and creating their own pieces of art using a range of materials and tools
Help to support the development of the PYP Attitudes through the unit.

PSPE Strands
Self-concept: An understanding of the set of beliefs, attitudes and feelings that children have about themselves. The extent to which they value themselves will not only affect what they can do, but how they interact with others. It is important that they are confident to try new things, to express their views and are eager to explore new learning.

Social Studies Strands
Social Organisation and Culture: The study of people, communities, cultures and societies; the ways in which individuals, groups, and societies interact with each other.

PYP Attitudes
Appreciation, Creativity

How does our learning in English Language support our understanding of this unit of inquiry?
Language to Describe: Learning how to describe the elements of art in art pieces, how art pieces make them feel and how artists use elements of art.