Grade 8 Creative Arts (Visual Arts) is an exploratory and hands-on subject that bridges the foundational skills of primary school with the conceptual depth required for FET phase art subjects. The curriculum focuses on developing visual literacy, understanding the role of the artist, and mastering foundational 2D and 3D techniques. To ensure you stay on track with your art portfolio and theory, it is essential to consult the full Grade 8 Annual Teaching Plans (ATPs).
This article outlines the 2026 Creative Arts (Visual Arts) Grade 8 ATP, breaking down the weekly focus areas for teachers and learners, covering everything from Portraiture and Sculpture to Printmaking and Life Drawing.
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The Annual Teaching Plan is divided into four terms, ensuring a balance between practical art-making (both 2D and 3D) and theoretical understanding (Visual Literacy).
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Term 1: Portraiture and The Artist’s Role (2D/3D)
Focus: The first term establishes foundational drawing and painting skills, with an emphasis on expressive and interpretive portraiture.
- Visual Literacy: Interpreting, analyzing, and recognizing symbolic language (signs, national symbols) and the role of the artist as a contributor and social commentator in society.
- Create in 2D: Drawing and painting a Self-Portrait or a Portrait of another, exploring a variety of media (e.g., tempera, oil pastels) and techniques. Emphasis is placed on personal expression and interpretation.
- Skills: Consolidation and revision of Art Elements and Design Principles (e.g., contrast, balance, emphasis).
- Assessment: Formal Practical Assessment (2D) – 25 marks.
Term 2: Sculpture and Public Art (3D/2D)
Focus: Term 2 introduces 3D construction, challenging learners to use their skills to create a piece with public or social relevance.
- Create in 3D: Building a Marquette (small model) for a South African sculpture for a public space that makes a public comment.
- Skills: Mastering construction and modeling techniques (pasting, cutting, joining) using recyclable materials (concern for the environment). Developing spatial awareness (plane, depth, visual perspective).
- Alternative 2D: Learners may instead create a Still life to make public comment or design a Logo using a South African motif.
- Assessment: Formal Practical Assessment (3D or 2D) – 25 marks. Written Control Test (25 marks) covering terminology and theory from Terms 1 and 2.
Term 3: Printmaking and Popular Culture (2D)
Focus: Term 3 explores the use of printmaking techniques (etching/scratching) to engage with popular culture and mass media.
- Visual Literacy: Analyzing Art and Design examples from popular culture (e.g., CD covers, cell phone wallpapers).
- Create in 2D: Exploring simple etching techniques (e.g., scraperboard, scratching) or linocuts. Designing a flyer or leaflet that reflects popular culture.
- Skills: Experimenting with black and white contrast and using various repeat methods for patterns.
- Theory: Comparison and discussion of two different South African art forms (e.g., painting vs. sculpture).
- Assessment: Formal Practical Assessment (2D Artwork) – 25 marks.
Term 4: Life Drawing and Final Examination
Focus: The final term is dedicated to advanced observational drawing or 3D construction (Puppetry), followed by the final examinations.
- Create in 3D: Making a ventriloquist puppet (or other type of puppet) for public commentary. Focus on construction and modeling techniques using mixed media.
- Create in 2D (Alternative): Life Drawing of a model, focusing on line, tone, and texture, or creating book illustrations for symbolic personal expression.
- Revision: Consolidation of all Art Elements, Design Principles, and terminology from the year.
- Assessment: Practical Examination (25 marks) and a Written Examination (25 marks) on Term 3 and 4 theory, including careers and reflection.
FAQ: Creative Arts (Visual Arts) Grade 8
Q: What is the primary 3D skill taught in Grade 8? A: The primary 3D skill is construction and modeling to create a marquette (small-scale model) of a sculpture. This task strongly encourages the use of recyclable materials.
Q: Are learners required to do life drawing? A: Yes, Life Drawing of a model is a dedicated activity in Term 4. If an alternative 2D option is chosen, the emphasis is still on advanced drawing and painting skills.
Q: How is the written component of the Visual Arts course assessed? A: There is a Written Control Test in Term 2 and a Written Examination in Term 4 (25 marks each). These tests cover terminology, Art Elements, Design Principles, the role of the artist, and critical reflection.