Unit Plan 23 (Grade 2 Art): Portfolio Self-Assessment

Focus: Use simple criteria to look back at personal artwork, evaluate strengths and needs, and set next-step goals as an artist.

Grade Level: 2

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Responding)

Total Unit Duration: 1–3 weeks, 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students become “artist judges” for their own work. Using simple, kid-friendly criteria—neatness (craftsmanship), use of space (composition), and clear idea or story (message)—they look back at several artworks from the year and decide what they did well and what they could improve. Students practice filling out a basic self-check rubric, talk about their strengths, and set one small goal for future art. By the end, they understand that self-assessment helps them notice their own growth and plan how to keep getting better.

Essential Questions

• How can I use simple rules (criteria) to look at my own artwork?
• What does it mean to evaluate my art in a kind, honest way?
• How can self-assessment help me see my strengths and my next steps as an artist?
• Why is it helpful to set a goal for my future artwork?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Name and use simple criteria (neatness, use of space, clear idea/message) when looking at artwork.
2. Use a kid-friendly self-assessment checklist or rubric to evaluate their own art.
3. Review at least 3–4 artworks from their “portfolio” and notice changes or growth.
4. Identify at least one strength and one area to improve in their work.
5. Set a simple art goal based on their self-evaluation (e.g., “Work more carefully with color,” “Fill my space more”).

Standards Alignment — 2nd Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Re9.5a — Evaluate artwork using criteria such as craftsmanship, composition, and clarity of message.
  • Example: Students use a checklist to assess peer work.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can use criteria (neatness, space, clear idea) to look at my own artwork.
• I can fill out a self-check about my art in an honest way.
• I can find at least one strength in my portfolio.
• I can name one thing to improve in my future art.
• I can write or say a simple art goal for myself.