Unit Plan 24 (Grade 6 Art): Revision & Improvement Cycle
Grade 6 art revision unit where students use critique feedback to refine earlier work, improving craftsmanship, composition, and clarity through intentional changes.
Focus: Revise earlier artwork using critique feedback to improve craftsmanship, organization, and overall clarity of ideas.
Grade Level: 6
Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Process & Revision • Reflection)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students learn that strong artwork is often the result of a revision process, not just a single attempt. Building on earlier projects and feedback, they choose a previously completed artwork and use critique notes and simple criteria to plan and carry out specific improvements. Through mini-lessons, guided practice, and peer check-ins, students focus on improving craftsmanship (neatness, control of materials) and organization (composition, use of space) while keeping their original idea and message.
Essential Questions
- How can revision help me turn a “good start” into a stronger, more polished artwork?
- What does it mean to use feedback to improve craftsmanship and organization?
- How can I decide what to change and what to keep in an artwork I already made?
- Why is it important for artists to be willing to rework and refine their pieces?
- How can I tell if my revisions actually improved the artwork?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Review an earlier artwork and identify at least two specific areas to improve based on feedback and simple criteria (VA:Cr3.6a).
- Use critique notes, checklists, and teacher guidance to create a revision plan that targets craftsmanship (control, neatness, detail) and organization (composition, use of space) (VA:Cr3.6a).
- Apply revision strategies—such as cleaning edges, strengthening lines, adjusting color, or rebalancing composition—to an existing artwork (VA:Cr3.6a).
- Compare the artwork before and after revision and explain how specific changes improved clarity or visual impact (VA:Cr3.6a).
- Reflect on the revision cycle and describe how feedback and revision can support future projects (VA:Cr3.6a).
Standards Alignment — 6th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Cr3.6a — Refine artwork through revision, incorporating feedback to improve craftsmanship and organization.
- Example: Students adjust proportions after critique discussion.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can look at an earlier artwork and name specific parts that need improvement.
- I can create and follow a revision plan based on feedback and criteria.
- I can show how I improved my craftsmanship (neatness, control, detail) and organization (composition, use of space).
- I can explain how my artwork changed from before to after revision using clear examples.
- I can describe how using feedback and revision will help me in my next art projects.