Unit Plan 10 (Grade 8 Art): Symbolism & Visual Metaphor

Focus: Explore how symbolism and visual metaphor communicate deeper meaning in artwork, and practice interpreting artist intent using subject matter, symbols, materials, and context.

Grade Level: 8

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Art Interpretation • Critical Thinking)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students become art detectives, looking beyond what is literally shown in an artwork to uncover symbolism and visual metaphor. Through close looking, discussion, and written responses, they learn to connect subject matter, symbols, colors, composition, and materials to possible ideas or themes the artist might be expressing. Students compare interpretations, support their ideas with evidence from the artwork, and experiment with creating small symbolic sketches of their own. By the end, they will be more confident in talking about what artworks might mean, not just what they look like.

Essential Questions

• What is the difference between what we see in an artwork and what it might mean?
• How do artists use symbols and visual metaphors (objects, colors, poses, materials) to communicate deeper ideas or emotions?
• How can we use evidence from an artwork to support our interpretations of the artist’s intent?
• Why can different viewers have different interpretations of the same artwork—and can more than one be valid?
• How might understanding symbolism and visual metaphor help us create and understand art in our own lives?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Define symbol, symbolism, and visual metaphor and identify examples in everyday images (logos, emojis, memes).
2. Interpret selected artworks by describing subject matter and identifying potential symbols and visual metaphors (VA:Re8.8a).
3. Use evidence-based reasoning to explain how specific visual choices (objects, colors, composition, materials) support a possible theme or message.
4. Compare multiple interpretations of the same artwork and identify which are most strongly supported by what they see.
5. Create a small symbol sketch or visual metaphor concept that represents a personal idea, then explain their own intent.
6. Reflect on how their understanding of symbolism has changed and how it can influence future art-making.

Standards Alignment — 8th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Re8.8a — Interpret artwork by considering subject matter, symbolism, materials, and possible intent of the artist.
  • Example: Students analyze how symbolism communicates theme in contemporary art and defend their interpretations with visual evidence.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can explain what a symbol and a visual metaphor are and give examples from art and everyday life.
• I can describe what I see in an artwork (subject matter) and then suggest what it might mean.
• I can point to specific details in an artwork to support my interpretation of the artist’s intent.
• I can listen to different interpretations and decide which ones have the strongest evidence.
• I can design a simple image that uses symbolism to express an idea and explain my choices.