Unit Plan 11 (Grade 6 Art): Introduction to Symbolism
Grade 6 art unit exploring symbols and visual metaphors as students interpret subject matter, symbolism, and message to understand deeper meaning in artwork.
Focus: Interpret visual symbols and metaphors in artwork by considering subject matter, symbolism, and possible message.
Grade Level: 6
Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Interpretation • Symbolism & Metaphor)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students explore how artists use symbols and visual metaphors to communicate ideas, feelings, and themes that go beyond what is literally shown. They learn to distinguish between subject matter (what they see) and symbolic meaning (what it might represent), using everyday symbols and famous artworks as starting points. Through guided discussions, organizers, and quick sketch prompts, students practice interpreting artwork by asking, “What could this stand for?” and “What message might the artist be sending?”
Essential Questions
- What is a symbol, and how is it different from just an object in a picture?
- How can images act as visual metaphors for ideas or feelings?
- How do subject matter, symbolism, and message connect in artwork?
- Why might two viewers interpret the same symbol in different ways?
- How can understanding symbolism help me better understand and create artwork?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Define symbol and visual metaphor and identify common examples in everyday life and artworks (VA:Re8.6a).
- Describe the subject matter in an artwork and then suggest possible symbolic meanings for selected objects, settings, or actions (VA:Re8.6a).
- Use a simple interpretation organizer to connect subject matter, symbolism, and possible message in at least one artwork (VA:Re8.6a).
- Discuss how context (title, artist, time period, or culture) can change or deepen the meaning of a symbol (VA:Re8.6a).
- Create a quick symbolic sketch and explain how at least one visual choice could function as a symbol or metaphor for an idea or feeling (VA:Re8.6a).
Standards Alignment — 6th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Re8.6a — Interpret artwork by considering subject matter, symbolism, and possible message.
- Example: Students discuss what a visual metaphor might represent.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can explain what a symbol is and give examples from everyday life and art.
- I can tell the difference between what I see (subject matter) and what it might mean (symbolism).
- I can use an organizer or sentence stems to explain a possible message in an artwork.
- I can describe how context might change how we read a symbol.
- I can create a simple image and explain what part of it could be a symbol or visual metaphor.