Unit Plan 11 (Grade 4 Art): Understanding Symbolism
Grade 4 art unit where students identify subject matter, interpret visual symbols, and explain possible meanings in artworks using evidence and art vocabulary.
Focus: Interpret simple visual symbols in artwork by identifying subject matter, symbolism, and possible meaning.
Grade Level: 4
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 often use symbols—objects, colors, and images that stand for ideas or feelings—to communicate more than what we literally see. They explore familiar symbols (like hearts, doves, and broken objects) and then look for similar clues in artworks, posters, and illustrations. Through guided discussions and simple response activities, students practice explaining subject matter (what they see) and symbolism (what it might mean) while understanding that artworks can have more than one reasonable interpretation.
Essential Questions
- What is a symbol, and how is it different from just a picture of something?
- How can objects, colors, or repeated images in artwork stand for ideas, feelings, or messages?
- How can we use what we see (subject matter) plus clues and context to suggest possible meanings in artwork?
- Why might two people see different meanings in the same artwork, and how can both be thoughtful and valid?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Define symbol and identify familiar visual symbols from everyday life (e.g., emojis, signs, logos).
- Describe the subject matter of an artwork by naming people, objects, and settings they see.
- Identify possible symbols within an artwork and suggest what they might represent (e.g., a stormy sky = trouble, a light bulb = idea).
- Use simple sentence frames and art vocabulary to share at least one possible meaning for an artwork, supported by visual clues.
- Create a short written or drawn response that connects observed symbols to a possible message, mood, or story.
Standards Alignment — 4th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Re8.4a — Interpret artwork by identifying subject matter, symbolism, and possible meaning.
- Example: Students explain what objects in an artwork might represent.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can explain what a symbol is and give examples from everyday life and art.
- I can describe the subject matter of an artwork by saying what I see.
- I can point out objects or colors that might be symbols and say what they could stand for.
- I can share at least one possible meaning for an artwork and support it with clues from the picture.
- I can listen to others’ ideas and understand that artworks can have more than one reasonable meaning.