“YOUNG ENVIRONMENTAL ARTISTS”

During the first unit of inquiry “The Eco-citizen”, grade four students played the role of environmental artists when they developed their sense of appreciation to nature and thought of positive human activities that preserve it. Students were engaged in a global issue that strengthened their international-mindedness and their participation as global citizens. Students were environmental designers; they observed and created designs within the school playground. In addition, they home-researched natural and unneeded materials for the purpose of reusing them in creating 2D and 3D compositions. After shedding the light on artistic techniques and media, students created their sculptures, taking into consideration the subject and how it can be expressed symbolically; For example, a group represented planet earth in the form of a bitten apple because of pollution. Enthusiastically, students accomplished and presented their artworks. It was remarkable how students have taken the initiative to act responsibly towards environment by constantly using recycled materials.
As a result of this inquiry, students have gained deep understanding of using what they know to interpret arts and deepen understanding of themselves and the world around. Moreover, they discovered that arts have the power to influence thinking and behavior.
Safaa Badih-Visual art teacher