7th Grade Art Lesson Plan – Graffiti as Self-Expression
Name: Karina Raude
Enduring Idea: Art as a means of self-expression
Lesson Title: Graffiti
Time Frame: 3 x 90-minute classes
Lesson Summary
Students will explore graffiti as a historical and cultural art form rooted in communication and self-expression. After analyzing various styles and perspectives, students will create original graffiti designs using 3D letterforms and vibrant color transitions. Each student will paint their design on a 5x7" board, contributing to a collaborative mural alongside other middle school grades.
Key Concepts & Essential Questions
• Graffiti is a visual language of self-expression.
• Art reflects identity and transforms public spaces.
• How has graffiti been used to communicate throughout history?
• What defines an artist’s style?
• What is the value of public art in a community?
Standards
• 9.1.8.D. D: Express ideas through graffiti production
• 9.2.8.D: Analyze graffiti in cultural context
• 9.3.8.C: Identify diverse graffiti styles and techniques
Objectives
Knowledge:
• Identify graffiti styles and historical origins
Skills:
• Design graffiti letters using perspective, overlapping, and color blending
• Transfer and complete artwork on wood using paint markers
Dispositions:
• Recognize graffiti as a valid art form tied to personal and cultural identity
Interdisciplinary Connections
• History: Graffiti as visual communication
• Geometry: Applying perspective in lettering
Instructional Flow
Day 1:
• Discuss: Is graffiti art? View the presentation and graffiti history
• Brainstorm mural theme (e.g., teamwork)
• Sketch 3D graffiti letters with overlapping, perspective, and color transitions
• Begin painting the background on the wood boards
Day 2:
• Review graffiti styles and techniques
• Demo: Transferring designs with carbon paper
• Students transfer sketches to boards and begin outlining designs
Day 3:
• Demo: Using paint markers and blending colors
• Students complete graffiti boards and display them for reflection
Assessment
Formative: Teacher feedback during sketching and painting
Summative: Rubric (Participation, Style/Design, Craftsmanship) + Reflection (10 pts)
Questions:
1. What is the artist’s style?
2. What form of art is graffiti?
Modifications
• Adjust expectations based on student needs
• Provide extension options for students who finish early