Unit Plan 28 (Grade 5 Art): Exhibition Planning

Focus: Plan and organize artwork thoughtfully for display, considering themes, grouping, flow, and viewer experience while using appropriate organization techniques.

Grade Level: 5

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Presenting)

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

I. Introduction

Students become exhibition planners, deciding how to turn a collection of mounted, labeled artworks into a cohesive gallery experience. They explore how curators group pieces by theme, color, project, or story, and how arrangement, spacing, and signage affect what viewers notice first. By designing a simple exhibition plan and mock layout, students learn that organization and flow are key parts of preparing artwork for display—not just hanging pieces on a wall.

Essential Questions

• How can we organize artwork thoughtfully so a display feels clear, balanced, and meaningful?
• What different strategies can curators use to group and sequence artworks (by theme, color, project, or story)?
• How do spacing, height, and flow influence how viewers move through and experience an exhibition?
• Why is planning an exhibition an important part of preparing artwork for display, not just an extra step at the end?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Describe different ways to group and organize artworks in an exhibition (theme, project, color, narrative, etc.).
2. Work with classmates to design a simple exhibition plan using maps, sketches, or diagrams of a display space.
3. Decide on a consistent order and arrangement for artworks that supports clear viewing and balanced spacing.
4. Create simple section signs or headings (e.g., “Personal Narratives,” “Color & Mood”) to guide viewers through the exhibition.
5. Reflect on how their exhibition plan helps viewers understand and appreciate the artwork.

Standards Alignment — 5th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Pr5.5a — Prepare artwork for display using appropriate mounting, labeling, and organization techniques.
  • Example: Students create display labels including title and medium.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can explain at least two ways to organize artwork in a display (like by theme or project type).
• I can help design an exhibition plan that shows where artworks and signs will go.
• I can help decide a logical order for artworks so viewers can follow along easily.
• I can make or help make simple section signs that support the display’s organization.
• I can describe how our exhibition plan will make it easier for visitors to enjoy and understand the art.