Arts Curriculum
Art Studio and Art History
Students have Art Studio once a week for 1 1/2 hours. Art History is integrated into Art Studio time. Art history projects and discussions are designed to reinforce a student's knowledge of a particular art period or artist. Over a period of three years, art of the ancient world is reviewed. Individual artists are also explored starting with the Renaissance period and ending with contemporary artists.
As young artists, students explore the elements of art, line, shape, color, form and texture. We use different media to create 2- and 3-dimensional work. These include drawing and painting materials, clay, paper mache, printmaking, plaster and fibers. One month in the school year is dedicated to intensive clay work, with work brought to completion using our on-site kiln. Although most work is done individually, students also have opportunities to work collaboratively. Each student's book-style portfolio is used to store work and provides an opportunity to review past work and rework if a student feels the need. Students are encouraged to evaluate their art and write about it in their portfolios.
Each year, students enjoy either a presentation from a visiting artist or an art-related field trip or both. Often student art work is employed in "all school" projects such as creating backdrops for school plays. At times, art studio work coincides with classroom themes. For example, as students learn about the middle ages, they explore tapestry and weaving in the art studio.
In May, we celebrate all our hard work by turning the whole school into a gallery and inviting families to attend our Celebration of Art event.
Music and Drama
Music in Children’s House
Music is an important component of the Children’s House. Through developmentally appropriate songs, chants, and dances, children become familiar with important aspects of music-making – moving in rhythm, singing in various tonalities, improvising, listening, using language in musical ways, dancing, and instrument exploration. Students have the opportunity to develop their tonality and singing as well as rhythm and movement both individually and in a group. This basic music competence will form a strong foundation for the life-long enjoyment of music and, if desired later, developmentally appropriate musical instruction.
Music & Drama in Elementary
Our Music and Drama program is based on the belief that all children are inherently musical and creative. Through developmentally appropriate songs, dances, and theater games, we will guide the students in achieving basic music competency, a basic understanding of proper vocal technique, music theory, musicianship, and music history. Creative drama lessons and games will enhance their understanding of the world around them and themselves in addition to their appreciation of theater as an art form. Students will have the opportunity to share their work with our community in concerts and musical programs throughout the school year; virtual performances have worked for us during Covid-19 restrictions!
Yoga
Yoga is the ancient Eastern practice of deep stretching, meditation and relaxation which works to unite body, mind and spirit. Children are naturally attracted to the movement and challenge of the Yoga postures. Each Yoga class at Bridgeview consists of greeting, breathing, warm-ups, postures and deep relaxation. We use songs and games to enjoy the lightheartedness and joy of movement. Breathing is at the core of Yoga, and children become still and peaceful as they focus on their breath. The Yoga postures help improve balance, flexibility and strength in all muscles of the body.