One activity can help students better understand the artwork of a particular famous artist, such as Vincent Van Gogh. By studying samples of that artist's work, a seventh-grader can create pieces that reflect that artist's use of composition, texture and artistic elements such as lines, color and tone.
Invite seventh-graders to work with still-life drawings to learn perspective. Using a variety of media, such as watercolors, chalk, pencils or crayon, students can explore nature, people and buildings by creating detailed images.
Seventh-graders can learn about the environment by making art projects from recycled materials. Use magazines and newspapers to create collages. Weave discarded potato chip bags into baskets. Create boxes using discarded plastic items, and decorate them with dried fruits, flowers and macaroni. Students can make vases from recycled glass and bottles.
Seventh-graders can learn about specific politicians, philosophers, scientists, psychologists, and other historical figures by drawing caricatures, silhouettes, and sketches of these people. After they finish the project, invite them to give a two-minute presentation on their subject.