Unit Plan 32 (Grade 7 Art): Formal Exhibition Critique
Grade 7 art critique unit where students evaluate exhibition works using rubric-based criteria and visual evidence to provide constructive, respectful feedback.
Focus: Evaluate displayed works using criteria and evidence by engaging in structured, rubric-based exhibition critiques.
Grade Level: 7
Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Critique • Reflection)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, students step into the role of critics and curators, carefully evaluating artworks in a formal exhibition setting. They learn how to use established criteria—such as craftsmanship, composition, originality, communication of message, and presentation—and to support their evaluations with specific visual evidence. Through guided practice, gallery walks, and structured critique protocols, students develop the ability to give constructive, evidence-based feedback that respects artists while deepening understanding of quality in art.
Essential Questions
- What does it mean to evaluate artwork fairly and thoughtfully in a formal exhibition?
- How do criteria and rubrics help us judge artwork beyond “I like it” or “I don’t like it”?
- Why is it important to use visual evidence when explaining our opinions about art?
- How can we give constructive feedback that helps artists grow while honoring their intent?
- In what ways can formal exhibition critique improve my own art-making and presentation?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Identify and explain established criteria for evaluating artwork in an exhibition (e.g., craftsmanship, composition, originality, communication, presentation) (VA:Re9.7a).
- Use an evaluation rubric to assess selected artworks, citing specific visual evidence to support their judgments (VA:Re9.7a).
- Provide constructive, evidence-based feedback in spoken and written critique, using respectful language and art vocabulary (VA:Re9.7a).
- Compare how different viewers may interpret the same artwork and still use criteria and evidence to support their perspectives (VA:Re9.7a).
- Write a short formal exhibition critique of one artwork or a small group of works, clearly explaining their evaluation with criteria and evidence (VA:Re9.7a).
Standards Alignment — 7th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Re9.7a — Evaluate artwork using established criteria and provide constructive, evidence-based feedback.
- Example: Students use a rubric to assess composition strength.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can name and describe criteria used to evaluate artwork in an exhibition.
- I can use a rubric and visual evidence to explain my evaluation of a piece.
- I can give respectful, constructive feedback that is more than “I like it” or “It looks cool.”
- I can explain how two people might disagree about artwork while still using criteria and evidence.
- I can write a short formal critique that clearly communicates my evaluation of an artwork.