Unit Plan 27 (Grade 4 Art): Preparing Artwork for Display

Focus: Prepare completed artwork for display using appropriate mounting and labeling techniques that show care, pride, and clarity.

Grade Level: 4

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 to treat their artwork like it is going into a real gallery. They practice handling finished pieces carefully, choosing orientation, trimming or straightening edges, and mounting artwork onto backing paper so it looks neat and intentional. Students also design simple labels that include important information such as title, artist name, grade, and medium. By the end of the unit, students understand that presentation matters—how artwork is mounted and labeled changes how viewers experience it.

Essential Questions

• Why does mounting and labeling artwork matter when it is shown to others?
• What steps do artists and curators take to prepare artwork for a professional-looking display?
• What information should a simple art label include so viewers understand what they are seeing?
• How can careful craftsmanship and handling during mounting show respect for our own work and the work of others?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Explain what it means to prepare artwork for display, including handling, mounting, and labeling steps.
2. Mount one or more artworks onto backing paper with neat, even borders using appropriate adhesives and tools.
3. Create simple art labels that include title, artist name, grade/class, and medium, using legible handwriting or printed text.
4. Demonstrate careful craftsmanship and safe handling of artwork and materials during the display-preparation process.
5. Reflect on how mounting and labeling changed the way their artwork looks and how a viewer might experience it.

Standards Alignment — 4th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Pr5.4a — Prepare artwork for display using appropriate mounting and labeling techniques.
  • Example: Students create simple labels including title and medium.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can describe the steps needed to prepare artwork for display.
• I can mount my artwork onto backing paper so that the borders are neat and even.
• I can make a simple, clear label that tells the title, my name, grade, and medium.
• I can handle artwork and materials with care, avoiding rips, smudges, or bent corners.
• I can explain how mounting and labeling make my artwork look more professional and easier for viewers to understand.