Sketching is the basis of all forms of art. Sculptors, painters and architects will all use a sketch to design a piece of art before they begin. Give each student a sketchbook and tell them to practice sketching inside during the term. They can sketch anything they want. Doing this will get them used to the idea of drawing, and will make them more aware of different techniques of art. They can also practice any new ideas they learn to become comfortable.
Studying the history of art will help students to place art in particular genres and will make them understand the importance of context in art. Studying famous periods of painting, such as the Renaissance, Surrealism and Modern Art, will give students a comparative appreciation of art. Studying art as a progression will allow sections to fit together and will make students aware of the developments and refinements in art over history.
Abstract art as a topic will allow students to be free in their art. Studying that art can be anything will open up possibilities and help students to be creative. Studying abstract art will mean that students can copy famous artists and begin to design their own work. Having sketchbooks will foster their creativity and help it to develop. Telling students that color and shape do not have to be rigid will give them an opportunity to experiment.
Portraits are some of the most common forms of art. Painting portraits is how many famous artists made their money throughout their life. Learning how portrait painting has changed gives a reference as to how we view art. Compare the "Mona Lisa" with the Andy Warhol Marilyn Monroe painting to see how art can represent people in different ways. Self-portraits are an important area to study, and students can use their sketchbooks to draw self-portraits.