Unit Plan 11 (Grade 3 Art): Understanding Symbols in Art

Focus: Interpret simple symbols in artwork by identifying subject matter and possible meaning.

Grade Level: 3

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Responding)

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

I. Introduction

In this unit, students explore how artists use symbols—objects, animals, colors, and shapes that stand for ideas or feelings—to communicate more than what we see at first glance. They practice noticing subject matter (what is shown) and then asking, “What could this represent?” Through guided discussions and simple “symbol detective” activities, students begin to connect visual clues to possible meanings, building confidence in talking about art in their own words.

Essential Questions

• What is a symbol, and how is it different from just an everyday object in a picture?
• How do artists use objects, animals, and colors to stand for ideas or feelings?
• How can I use clues in an artwork (subject matter, colors, repeated images) to guess possible meanings?
• Why might artists choose symbols instead of writing words to share a message?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Define a symbol in simple terms and identify at least one symbol in a classroom example artwork.
2. Describe the subject matter of an artwork (what they see) before guessing what parts might be symbolic.
3. Suggest at least one possible meaning for a symbol, using clues like context, color, and repetition.
4. Record their ideas using a simple “symbol chart” (symbol → what it is → what it might mean).
5. Reflect on how using symbols can help artworks tell stories and feelings without words.

Standards Alignment — 3rd Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Re8.3a — Interpret artwork by identifying subject matter and possible meaning.
  • Example: Students describe what objects in a painting might represent.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can explain what a symbol is in art.
• I can tell the subject matter in an artwork by naming what I see.
• I can point to a symbol and say, “This might represent ___ because ___.”
• I can use a symbol chart to write my ideas about meaning.
• I can share my own interpretation and listen to others’ ideas respectfully.