Impressionist Art Exploration

Grade Level

9th Grade

Duration

30 Minutes

Class Size

1 student

Unit

Seasons of Learning — Lesson 20 of 30

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to:

• Analyze key characteristics of Impressionist art and identify techniques used by famous French Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet and Edgar Degas.
• Create an original piece of artwork using Impressionist techniques focusing on brush strokes, light, and color.
• Explain verbally or in writing how Impressionist art breaks from traditional art forms, linking to historical and cultural context studied.

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Common Core State Standards Alignment

ELA/Literacy

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.7
  Integrate visual information with text to deepen understanding of the Impressionist movement (e.g., studying prints/images of Monet’s works alongside written sources).

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2
  Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey ideas about how Impressionist artists used color and light uniquely.

Speaking and Listening

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.4
  Present information in a focused manner about the characteristics of Impressionist art, using domain-specific vocabulary.

Visual Arts (linked through Common Core integration with ELA)

While there is no national Common Core Art Standard, this lesson supports the understanding and interpretation of art through rigorous analysis consistent with CCSS ELA standards.

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Materials Needed

• Printed high-quality images of Impressionist paintings (e.g., Monet’s “Water Lilies,” Degas’ “Dancers”)
• Acrylic or tempera paint in vibrant colors
• Canvas or heavyweight paper
• Paintbrushes in various sizes
• Palette for mixing colors
• Sketchbook or notebook for reflection/writing
• Pencil and eraser

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Lesson Activities

1. Introduction & Visual Analysis (6 minutes)

• Show 3-4 iconic Impressionist images.
• Use guided questioning:
  • "What do you notice about how the paint is applied?"
  • "How do colors and light appear different from other art we’ve seen?"
  • "What emotions or moods do the paintings evoke?"
• Use CCSS RH.9-10.7 by integrating image observation with brief historical context (e.g., France 1870s, break from realism).

2. Art Technique Demonstration (6 minutes)

• Briefly demonstrate key Impressionist techniques:
  • Short, visible brush strokes
  • Use of complementary colors side-by-side
  • Capturing light effects instead of precise details
• Encourage the student to express ideas using art vocabulary (SL.9-10.4).

3. Student Art Creation (14 minutes)

• Task: Create an original Impressionist-style artwork inspired by a season (linking unit theme “Seasons of Learning”).
• Encourage experimentation with brush strokes and color mixing to simulate light.
• Circulate for feedback, reinforcing technique and vocabulary.

4. Reflection & Explanation (4 minutes)

• Have student orally explain their creative choices or write a short paragraph in their notebook referencing how their work captures Impressionist ideals (W.9-10.2).
• Prompt with questions:
  • “How did you use light or color to show the mood of your season?”
  • “What Impressionist technique did you find most interesting to try?”

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Assessment

• Formative: Observation of student’s ability to use impressionist brushstroke techniques and color application during creation.
• Written/Oral: Student’s brief explanation demonstrating understanding of Impressionist art principles aligned with Common Core writing standards.

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Differentiation & Extension

• For advanced understanding, student can research and compare one additional Impressionist artist’s style for next lesson.
• For deeper analysis, incorporate a short primary source excerpt from a French Impressionist or contemporary critic for analysis using CCSS RH.9-10.1 skills.

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Teacher Reflection Notes

• This one-on-one setting allows personalized pacing to deeply explore nuanced techniques in Impressionism while aligning closely with the Common Core focus on critical analysis and expressive communication.
• Integrating visual literacy with writing and speaking standards provides multidisciplinary engagement that reinforces retention and mastery.

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This lesson plan combines immersive art practice with analytical rigor, empowering the student to connect historical context, artistic technique, and personal creativity — all within a tightly structured 30-minute session.