Unit Plan 16 (Grade 2 Art): Structured Critique Session
Grade 2 art unit where students use clear criteria to evaluate artwork, give kind and specific peer feedback, and practice simple self-assessment of message art.
Focus: Use clear criteria to talk about artwork, give kind and specific feedback, and practice simple self- and peer-evaluation of finished message artworks.
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 learn that artists and viewers use criteria—simple rules or ideas—to talk about artwork. Building on their recent message artworks, students practice looking carefully, using words like craftsmanship, composition, and clear message in age-appropriate language. They learn a gentle critique routine to give and receive feedback, and they use a checklist to evaluate their own work. By the end, students understand that critique is about noticing, thinking, and helping, not about being mean.
Essential Questions
- How can I use simple rules (criteria) to talk about artwork?
- What does it mean to give kind and helpful feedback to a classmate?
- How do craftsmanship, composition, and a clear message help make artwork strong?
- How can evaluation help me see what I did well and what I can improve next time?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Use simple criteria words (neatness, use of space, clear main idea/message) when looking at artwork.
- Practice a structured critique routine to give kind, specific comments about a classmate’s artwork.
- Use a checklist to evaluate their own message artwork with basic criteria.
- Identify at least one strength and one possible improvement in their own work.
- Explain why using criteria and feedback can help them grow as artists.
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 simple criteria (neat, filled space, clear idea) to talk about artwork.
- I can give kind feedback that says what I notice and one thing that could be even better.
- I can use a checklist to evaluate my own artwork.
- I can name one strength and one idea to improve in my art.
- I can listen respectfully when someone gives me feedback.