Visual Arts

Expression of ideas and feelings: The curriculum encourages students to express ideas, feelings, and experiences through visual and tactile forms. In the START Competition, students engage in activities such as illustrating their trial processes and results. This might involve creating detailed drawings or paintings that represent the stages and findings of their trials, connecting their scientific experiences with artistic expression.

Creative problem-solving: Art isn’t just about making things look nice—it’s a powerful tool for thinking differently. When students use art in the START Competition, they aren’t just drawing or painting; they are learning how to see problems from new perspectives and come up with inventive solutions. One of the most exciting parts of using art in problem-solving is the freedom to experiment. In the START Competition, students are free to choose any art techniques like drawing or painting and might discover that a certain way of drawing a chart makes their data easier to understand a complicated idea.

Self-expression is highly valued in the arts curriculum, as it plays a crucial role in building confidence and self-esteem. The START Competition fosters this by providing opportunities for students to express their ideas through art. Whether it’s a beautifully drawn diagram, or a well-designed poster, their artistic creations can be valued and displayed in school exhibitions or community events. This recognition helps students feel proud of their creative efforts and encourages them to take on new challenges with confidence.

When we asked a teacher in the 2024 Competition: “In what way has the START Competition impacted your students?” He replied, “Boosted confidence, given them memories that will last a lifetime and allowed them to reach for the stars”.

“Boosted confidence, given them memories that will last a lifetime and allowed them to reach for the stars”

Enjoyable and purposeful experiences are central to the curriculum’s aim for children. At the heart of the START Competition is the idea that learning should be fun. Students get to dive into creative activities that go beyond the usual classroom tasks. Whether they’re drawing, painting, or even creating digital art, they are free to experiment and play with different materials and ideas. This playful exploration allows them to enjoy the process of learning, as they see their ideas come to life in colourful and imaginative ways.

For example, instead of just writing a report, students might design a comic strip that explains the steps of their randomised trial, or drawings and charts that represents the results. This kind of hands-on, creative work is not only enjoyable but also deeply engaging, as it connects learning to activities that students naturally find fun.

Perceptual awareness is central to the curriculum, helping students enjoy and interpret the visual environment and artworks, which facilitates learning across all areas. In the START Competition, students are encouraged to observe and respond to the visual aspects of their trial environment. Activities like producing observational drawings or photographs of trial elements deepen their understanding and appreciation of both their visual and scientific surroundings.

Integrated learning is highlighted in the curriculum through well-planned, cross-curricular activities that incorporate multiple media. The START Competition embraces this approach by blending visual arts with subjects like science and mathematics. For example, children might create digital presentations or short films that combine visual art with scientific data, demonstrating the integration of creative and scientific thinking.