Grammar for Arts
Unit 7 – Common Core Technologies
Introduction
This unit focuses on grammatical structures used when discussing art forms, artistic expression, and cultural appreciation. We’ll explore specialized vocabulary and sentence patterns for analyzing artworks.
Key Topics
• Passive voice
• Relative clauses
• Descriptive adjectives
Art Vocabulary
Mediums, techniques, styles
Functions
Describing, analyzing, critiquing
1. Passive Voice in Art Description
Object + be + past participle + (by agent)
Examples
“The sculpture was created in 1920.”
“Oil paints are often used for portraits.”
“This technique was developed by Renaissance artists.”
Usage contexts:
- When the artist is unknown
- When focusing on the artwork
- In art historical descriptions
Interactive Practice
Convert these active sentences to passive:
1. Picasso painted Guernica in 1937.
2. Artists use various mediums.
2. Relative Clauses in Art Analysis
Types
Defining: Essential information
“The painting that won the prize is now in the Louvre.”
Non-defining: Extra information
“The Mona Lisa, which was painted by da Vinci, attracts millions.”
Relative Pronouns
| Pronoun | Use |
|---|---|
| who | People (artists) |
| which | Artworks/objects |
| where | Places (galleries) |
| whose | Possession |
3. Descriptive Language for Art
This painting a scene.
Adjective Categories:
Color:
vibrant, muted, contrasting
Texture:
smooth, rough, impasto
Style:
abstract, realistic, surreal
4. Language for Art Critique
Positive Evaluation
“The composition effectively balances light and shadow.”
“What stands out particularly is the use of perspective.”
“The artist successfully conveys a sense of movement.”
Expressions:
- skillfully demonstrates
- masterfully captures
- innovative approach to
Constructive Criticism
“The color palette could be more varied to…”
“It might have been stronger if the artist had…”
“One area for improvement might be the…”
Expressions:
- somewhat lacking in
- would benefit from
- less successful in
