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TSQ I Element B

Teachers demonstrate mastery of and pedagogical expertise in the content they teach. The elementary teacher is an expert in literacy and mathematics and is knowledgeable in all other content that he or she teaches (e.g., science, social studies, arts, physical education, or world languages). The secondary teacher has knowledge of literacy and mathematics and is an expert in his or her content endorsement area(s).

Interdisciplinary Social Cause Posters

As part of a 1.5–2 week interdisciplinary art and design unit for 7th and 8th grade students, I designed and implemented a lesson focused on creating social cause posters that integrated visual arts, literacy, and social studies. Students were encouraged to identify and relate with a real-world issue that mattered to them personally and socially (such as education, mental health, community safety, and climate change) and explore how visual communication can influence public awareness and inspire change. This project allowed me to demonstrate content expertise in visual arts while also incorporating meaningful cross-curricular connections.

To support literacy development, students engaged in written reflection by composing a proposal form at the beginning of the unit and artist statements at the end of the unit. These statements required students to articulate their message, design decisions, and emotional intent, helping them synthesize their learning and communicate their creative process using domain-specific vocabulary. The artist statement also aligned directly with literacy standards and supported students in developing voice, clarity, and purpose in their writing—reinforcing the emphasis of TQS I, Element B on literacy practices across content areas.

Throughout the unit, I facilitated classroom discussions and group analyses that strengthened students’ oral language and critical thinking skills. They interpreted and critiqued professional poster designs through the lens of visual impact, symbolism, emotional appeal, and cultural relevance. The unit aligned with the Colorado Visual Arts Standards, VA.8.4.1, students demonstrated their understanding that art can be a vehicle for social change.

This project is a strong example of how art can be integrated with core content knowledge, literacy, and real-world relevance. As well as empowering students to think critically, communicate visually and verbally, and engage with important issues through creative problem-solving.