Elective – Art History
Course Overview
This Art History course provides students with an in-depth exploration of visual arts from prehistory to the contemporary era. Students will examine major artistic movements, styles, and innovations across global cultures, gaining an understanding of how art reflects historical, cultural, social, political, and philosophical contexts. This course meets Florida B.E.S.T. standards and integrates interdisciplinary connections with history, literature, and civics.
Students develop analytical skills to evaluate artworks, use formal vocabulary to describe artistic features, and interpret meaning. Emphasis is placed on visual literacy, critical comparison, and historical inquiry, preparing students for future AP Art History or college-level study in the humanities.
Learning Outcomes by Quarter
- Quarter 1: Explore prehistoric, ancient, and classical art from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Develop vocabulary of form and style.
- Quarter 2: Examine medieval, Islamic, Asian, and early Renaissance art, including religious and cultural symbolism.
- Quarter 3: Analyze Baroque, Neoclassical, Romantic, and 19th-century movements in Europe and the Americas.
- Quarter 4: Study modern and contemporary art, global perspectives, and independent visual analysis projects.
Instructional Methods
Students engage with digital museum archives, guided art critiques, structured timelines, and thematic inquiry. Instruction includes multimedia resources, reading and writing assignments, class discussions, and visual presentations. Sketching, virtual gallery walks, and collaborative projects support differentiated learning and creative expression.
Assessment and Grading
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Art Analysis Projects | 40% |
| Essays & Timed Writing | 20% |
| Visual Presentations | 15% |
| Class Participation & Critique | 15% |
| Homework & Research | 10% |
Florida Standards Alignment
| Topic | Florida B.E.S.T. Benchmark | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Analysis | VA.912.C.1.3 | Evaluate works of art using elements of art and principles of design |
| Historical Context | VA.912.H.2.1 | Discuss how historical events influence visual art |
| Cultural Impact | VA.912.H.1.1 | Analyze how art reflects cultural beliefs and traditions |
| Creative Thinking | VA.912.F.1.1 | Interpret artistic meaning using critical thinking |
Academic Vocabulary Matrix
| Category | Key Terms | Contextual Application |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Form | Perspective, Composition, Line | Used in formal analysis and critique |
| Style & Movement | Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism | Classified and compared across periods |
| Interpretation | Symbolism, Allegory, Patronage | Applied to historical, political, and religious meaning |
| Critical Writing | Thesis, Context, Evidence | Used in comparative essays and DBQ-style prompts |