How to Critique- Using the Three R's

After your class has completed an art project you may want to hold an oral critique. It's a great way to talk about art. It helps students to learn how to develop and defend opinions. It also helps students to form judgements about art.

Here's a guide you can follow when you have an oral critique. It’s the Three R’s-

Review-
First review what the objectives of the project are.  Ask the students questions about their artwork to determine if they met the objectives.  You can also ask questions around their own personal objectives concerning the artwork.

Reward-

Next you should richly praise the aspects of the particular artwork that are well done and meet or exceeded the objectives.  Be specific; avoid vague generalities. Consider explaining why the aspect of the artwork is noteworthy. Encourage students to explain what they see (and why) as effective and praiseworthy about the artwork.

Respond-

What do you see- What elements and principles are used. How are they used? Are they used effectively? Could they have been used differently?

What you felt- What emotions do you feel when you look at the art work? Can you empathize with the artist? Are you moved to action? Do you experience anger, happiness, sadness or excitement when you look at the artwork? What do you think the artist is intending to say?

After you have demonstrated the Three R's method, let the students take over and have them run the critique.

Will this work in your classroom? If you have a critique format you use, let me know! I'd love to hear about it.