Unit Plan 30 (Grade 6 Art): Artist Reflection Writing
Grade 6 art reflection unit where students write artist statements explaining intent, process, and how personal experiences influenced their creative choices.
Focus: Explain artistic intent and process in writing, connecting artwork to personal interests and experiences.
Grade Level: 6
Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Reflection • Artist Voice)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students learn to put their artist voice into words by writing short reflections about their artwork. They look closely at their own finished pieces and practice explaining why they made certain choices and how personal interests or experiences influenced their designs. Through guided sentence frames, peer discussion, and modeled examples, students describe both their artistic intent and process in clear, student-friendly language. By the end, each student produces a polished Artist Reflection Paragraph that can be displayed alongside their work.
Essential Questions
- How can I explain why I made my artwork and what I want viewers to notice or feel?
- In what ways do my personal interests or experiences show up in my artistic choices?
- How can I describe my artistic process (planning, changing, and solving problems) in clear steps?
- Why is it important for artists to be able to talk and write about their art?
- How can written artist reflections help viewers understand and connect with our work?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Identify at least one personal interest or experience that influenced a chosen artwork (VA:Cn10.6a).
- Describe their artistic intent by explaining what they wanted to communicate or show in the piece (VA:Cn10.6a).
- Outline the steps of their art-making process, including planning, changes, and problem-solving moments (VA:Cn10.6a).
- Use simple art vocabulary (elements, principles, media) to describe key design choices in writing (VA:Cn10.6a).
- Write a clear Artist Reflection Paragraph that explains how personal influences shaped design choices and process (VA:Cn10.6a).
Standards Alignment — 6th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Cn10.6a — Create artwork inspired by personal interests or experiences and explain how those influenced design choices.
- Example: Students design artwork representing a favorite hobby.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can name at least one personal interest or experience that influenced my artwork.
- I can explain my artistic intent—what I hoped people would see, feel, or understand.
- I can describe the steps I took to make my piece, including at least one change or challenge.
- I can use art words like color, line, texture, contrast, or balance to explain my choices.
- I can write a short reflection that is clear, complete, and makes sense to someone who did not see me work.