Edgar Degas was one of the founders of Impressionism in the 19th Century in France.  Characteristics of Impressionism are small visible brush strokes, ordinary subject matter, accurate depictions of light and included unusual angles.  Impressionist painters went against the ordinary painting styles that existed at the time such as still lifes and portraits.  Impressionists began painting 'en plein air', meaning outside and in the exact moment.  Edgar Degas was known for painting ballerina's en plein air. 

In order to incorporate the kindergarten lesson into art class, the students were asked to create their own Edgar Degas rendition.  The students used a stencil, 12x18" paper and sponged blue tempera paint for their ballerina in the center of the paper.  After each ballerina dried, students put their ballerina on a stage while discussing the angle in which we are looking at their bellerina. 

Lesson Plan

Lesson Objective:

• Students will recognize Edgar Degas
  • Impressionism founder
  • Late 1800s
  • Contemporary subject matter, movement, modern life
  • France
  • Changed his style, influence by Edouard Manet and Mary Cassatt, left the salon
• Students will be familiar with the

 Procedure:

• TTW introduce Edgar Degas

 Vocabulary:

• Impressionism: realities of the world painted with dazzling colors concentrating on the effects of light
• Edgar Degas
• Movement

 Materials:

• White paper 12 x 18
• Pastels
• Pencil
• Erasers
• Rags

 Standards:

• 9.1.3A: Know and use the elements and principles of each art form to create works of arts and humanities.
  • Color, form, shape and line
• 9.1.3D: Use knowledge of varied styles within each art form through exhibition of unique work.
• 9.1.3E: Demonstrate the ability to define objects, express emotions, illustrate and action or relate an experience through creation of works in the arts.
• 9.1.3F: Identify works of others through a performance.

Assessment:

• Follows directions/class rules
• Neatness of project
• Understanding of project guidelines

Adaptations:

• Different medium such as crayons