Creativity, independence, and personal expression are taking center stage in the 7th and 8th-grade art classes at Maquoketa Middle School! Students are currently hard at work on their "WOW" projects—which stands for Wonderful, Original Work of art.
Designed around discipline-based art and a "gradual release of responsibility" framework, the WOW curriculum gives young artists complete agency over their projects. Instead of following a strict template, students set their own creative goals, outline the steps required to complete their vision, and take ownership of their artistic journey while receiving guidance and support from their teacher, Mrs. Sampica.
Middle school artists are choosing from a wide array of mediums and techniques to bring their ideas to life:
Painting & Color Mixing
Observational Art & Drawing
Weaving & Printmaking
Scratch Art & Grid Drawing
To track their process, every student utilizes a dedicated planning notebook. This notebook includes a goal-setting page, a project completion checklist, a self-assessment rubric, and a written artist statement where students reflect on their creative process and final piece.
The best part? Students will have exciting opportunities to share their masterpieces with the broader community! Completed WOW projects may be featured in the art display cases in the Maquoketa Middle School hallways or entered into the upcoming student art show at the Maquoketa Art Experience in downtown Maquoketa.
A big shout-out to Mrs. Sampica for providing this incredible opportunity, guiding our young artists, and empowering them to explore their creative potential!
Keep an eye out for these extraordinary creations, and celebrate the amazing talent and dedication of our MMS artists!
