Unit Plan 18 (Grade 3 Art): Choosing Work for Display
Grade 3 art unit where students select artwork for display based on effort and growth, using checklists and reflections to justify their choice.
Focus: Select artwork that shows growth, effort, and improvement for classroom display.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Presenting)
Total Unit Duration: 1–3 weeks, 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students learn how artists choose which artworks to display and why those choices matter. They look back at pieces created earlier in the year and compare them to more recent work, noticing growth in effort, craftsmanship, and clarity of idea. Using simple criteria and checklists, students sort their own artworks, select at least one piece that shows improvement, and explain why it is a strong choice for display. They begin to see themselves as curators of their own art.
Essential Questions
- How do artists decide which artworks are ready to be displayed?
- What does it mean for a piece to show effort, improvement, or growth?
- How can I use simple criteria to choose my strongest work?
- Why is it important to be able to explain why I chose a certain piece for display?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Describe what it means to select artwork for display and why artists do not show every piece.
- Use a simple selection checklist (effort, growth, and clear idea) to evaluate their own artworks.
- Compare at least two of their artworks and identify evidence of improvement in craftsmanship or clarity.
- Choose at least one artwork that demonstrates growth and is appropriate for display.
- Explain, in speaking or writing, why they chose that artwork using the selection criteria.
Standards Alignment — 3rd Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Pr4.3a — Select artwork for presentation based on effort and improvement.
- Example: Students choose a finished piece for a classroom gallery.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can look at my artwork and notice where I have improved.
- I can use a checklist to help me decide which pieces are strong choices for display.
- I can choose at least one artwork that shows my effort and growth.
- I can explain why I chose that artwork using words like effort, neatness, improvement, and clear idea.
- I can treat my artwork with care as I prepare it to be seen by others.