Middle School Art
Welcome to the Art 7 and 8 page! Here you can find information about the middle school art courses taught by Mr. Strader. Currently, this page includes frequently asked questions, course corrections policies, and links to specific course resources. Make sure to bookmark this page on your browser and stay tuned for further updates throughout the semester!
Course FAQs
Are we required to create or purchase a sketchbook?
It's not necessary to buy one, but it's recommended to have a tool for organizing your ideas. Feel free to use whatever suits your preference!
The download of Tux Paint in the lesson is unsuccessful/the link is broken!
Tux Paint isn't required to complete the course. Explore the Art Making Apps page for alternative options for digital art creation.
How do I submit my assignments?
During the semester, you'll submit three distinct pieces of artwork (portfolios). Each portfolio should be submitted within the corresponding lesson as it appears on your planner.
What's the process for transferring my artwork to my computer?
Webcam on Student Laptops: Capture the artwork using the webcam on your student laptop and save the photo directly to your computer.
Digital Camera or Smartphone: Take a photo using a digital camera or smartphone and transfer it to your computer through USB.
Scanner: Use a flatbed or document scanner to create a high-quality digital image of the artwork. Most scanners come with software that helps you save the scanned image to your computer.
What supplies do I need for this art course?
The school will send you an art kit either before school starts or shortly after the first day of school. Generally, you will need pencils, sketchbooks, colored pencils, markers, watercolors, and other basic art materials.
Can I use digital tools for assignments?
Some assignments will require you attempt to use traditional materials, while others will allow for digital submissions. Check out the art making apps page for digital options.
How will my work be graded?
Quizzes and quick checks will be graded as soon as you complete them. Portfolios will be graded with feedback provided within a week of submitting it to the portfolio's dropbox.
How can I get help if I'm struggling with an assignment?
If you're having trouble, you can reach out to Mr. Strader via WebMail or book a call.
Are there any art history components in the course?
Sections and Live Lessons will cover art history and introduce you to famous artists and their works. There will also be an emphasis on contemporary artists of different race, gender, and cultural backgrounds.
Can I work ahead if I finish assignments early?
We strongly recommend adhering to your planner's schedule and participating in Live Lessons as they are scheduled. This ensures you receive comprehensive guidance for completing your assignments accurately. Attempting to work ahead might lead to unnecessary confusion.
Will I receive feedback on my assignments?
Yes, Mr. Strader will provide a small amount feedback on your assignments to help you improve your skills and techniques. You can always request further feedback by booking a call or simply emailing Mr. Strader.
Can I collaborate with classmates on projects?
You are expected to complete your own portfolios, but there will be opportunities to collaborate with your classmates in Live Lesson.
Is there a final project or assessment for this course?
Throughout the semester, you will have three portfolios (unless one is dropped), which includes a final portfolio in the final unit. It's important to note that you won't need to resubmit previous work, and there won't be a final exam, test, or quiz.
Course Grading and Corrections Policy
Extra Credit
Keep an eye out for extra credit opportunities throughout the semester. One way to improve your score in the class is to follow along with communications and announcements.
Portfolio Corrections
Any portfolio that has a 70% or lower can be resubmitted two weeks after the original grade date. Any other resubmissions that do not fit that criteria must be discussed with Mr. Strader.
Quizzes and Quick Checks
OCA understands that the learning environment can take a while to adjust to and technical issues can occur with certain types of assessments. In the art course, quizzes and quick checks are graded “as is” and cannot be corrected unless there is a unique circumstance that both Mr. Strader and the Learning Couch are aware of. Corrections will not be granted for rushing or not reading the material.
Fall Live Lesson Schedule
All Live Lessons will be held in Mr. Strader's Live Lesson room (CLASS App). Please make sure that you are checking the right course below (7th and 8th). All dates will be placed on student planners.
Art 7 Lesson Schedule
Tuesdays at 2 PM (bi-weekly)
August 20: Art 7 Intro
August 27: Why Art?
September 2-13: NO LLs- MAP TESTS
September 17: Pop Art
October 1: Perspective -PORTFOLIO
October 15: Storytelling in Art -PORTFOLIO
October 29: Responding to Art
November 12: Evaluating a Genre
November 26: Extending the Collection -PORTFOLIO
Art 8 Lesson Schedule
Thursdays at 2 PM (bi-weekly)
August 20: Art 8 Intro
August 29: What is art to you?
September 2-13: NO LLs- MAP TESTS
September 19: Painting Contrast -PORTFOLIO
October 3: Art in Review
October 17: Opinion Cartoons -PORTFOLIO
October 31: Painting Critique
November 14: Creativity and Innovation 1 -PORTFOLIO
November 28: Creativity and Innovation 2 -PORTFOLIO
About Mr. Strader
Mr. Strader's journey from selling dinosaur drawings as a youngster to showcasing his artwork in galleries across northeast Ohio is nothing short of inspiring. His passion has no bounds, which includes traditional mediums, video editing, and a flair for comic books and graphic novels. He also has a decades worth of museum experience as a preparator, helping place objects and hang pieces on the gallery walls of the Akron Art Museum. His diverse background and infectious enthusiasm make him the perfect guide for students eager to explore their own creative potential.
Mr. Strader teaches:
Art 7
Art 8
Phone Number: (440) 462-6187