Visual Arts in Central Bucks is offered in grades 6, 7 and 8
Middle School Art, grades 6–8, builds on the foundation developed in elementary art while supporting students as they grow in confidence, independence, and creative thinking. Across Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, and Collaborative Art, students continue to develop skills through the creative process, guided studio practice, reflection, critique, and meaningful connections to art history, art criticism, aesthetics, and visual problem-solving. The creative cycle below reflects the foundation of our best practices for teaching and supports consistent K–12 alignment across the CBSD art program.
- Inspire and Research
- Plan, Sketch, and Practice
- Envision, Create, and Revise
- Share, Reflect, and Assess
Grade 6 Art
This course follows a Disciplined-Based Art Education (DBAE) approach while aligning with national standards for visual arts education. Students will engage in a dynamic, hands-on exploration of artistic techniques, concepts, and cultural connections.
Through both two-dimensional and three-dimensional projects, students will investigate color, texture, and form, while exploring of a variety of artistic genres and styles . They will use line, shape, and space to create depth and meaning in their work while drawing inspiration from historical and contemporary artists.
By blending skill-building with creative exploration, this course allows teachers the flexibility to tailor projects to students’ interests. Beyond creating art, students will explore self-expression, creativity, and the meaningful role art plays in different communities and time periods.
Grade 7 Art
Grade 7 Art builds on students’ K–6 art experiences while supporting continued growth through the creative process and guided skill development. Studio units focus on drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture as students create a variety of two- and three-dimensional artworks. Art history is integrated throughout the course, with students exploring art movements from the late 1800s to the early 1920s. Through critiques, class discussions, reflections, and writing, students continue to develop knowledge and skills in art criticism, aesthetics, and philosophy while strengthening their artistic vocabulary, visual problem-solving, and confidence as developing artists.
Grade 8 Art
Grade 8 Art builds on students’ K–7 art skills and prior experiences while supporting continued growth through the creative process and guided skill development. Studio units focus on intermediate concepts and techniques in drawing, painting, commercial art, crafts, and animation. Students explore twentieth-century art movements, artistic styles, and selected artists while making connections to art history, art criticism, aesthetics, and philosophy. Through creating, reflecting, discussing, writing, and participating in critiques, students strengthen their artistic vocabulary, visual problem-solving skills, and confidence as developing artists.
Collaborative Arts - Grade 6, 7 & 8
Collaborative Art is an inclusive elective that brings together students of all abilities and backgrounds to create, learn, and lead as both mentors and learners. The course provides a safe, supportive environment where students engage in a wide range of art activities that promote artistic, intellectual, and social growth. Working side by side, students develop communication, decision-making, compassion, leadership, and collaboration skills. They explore various materials and media, focusing on the creative process and mutual support rather than perfection. The course encourages meaningful peer relationships, appreciation for diverse artistic expressions, and a strong sense of community. Students build connections while developing artistic skills in a structured setting that values creativity and inclusion.