Higher Order Thinking in Art
This term our whole school undertook an inquiry study around
the provocative question, ‘Nature is our Greatest Teacher’. The boys became
engrossed in the many sub questions and discussions with all classes completing
their own age and stage studies.
The study culminated in a three day (from 11am to 2.30pm)
visual arts celebration where the boys in cross age electives chose their
medium for expression and then set out to show their thinking via the art form
they had chosen. Over and above the teaching staff we were able to engage
a few parents and other guest facilitators who helped ensure the size of the groups
were ideal for this endeavour.
I can’t overestimate the value of this time. The quality of
the art was outstanding but more importantly, the quality of the boys’
discussions and thinking was heart-warming to watch and hear. Our artist in
residence was ‘blown away’ by the boys’ questions, curiosity and their ability
to engage in meaningful dialogue.
After the work was hung for the exhibition it was a joy to
watch the boys view the range of art on display and take a deep interest in
others’ work. Our school visitors such as grandparents and friends were
delighted with what they saw and went away happy in the knowledge their
grandchildren were in a school that appreciated higher order thinking and had
high expectations around personal bests.
Wellesley is truly a ‘home for the mind’. Art Costa who
developed the ‘Habits of the Mind’ used this expression (home for the mind). It
captures so much of what we stand for as we strive to engage our boys in this
quest of being curious and willing to engage in ‘hard fun’ no matter whether it
is art, maths or any other curriculum area. This approach to education is now
part and parcel of the culture of Wellesley. The boys’ academic outcomes are
the ‘proof of the pudding’ but more importantly it is a joy to see these young
boys go off to secondary school and beyond to achieve their potential in
whatever fields they choose and in a position to positively contribute to
society.
What more could we ask for!
