The Teachers' Laboratory

Abstract

This stenographic report of a group criticism of paintings in a beginning first grade class, shows how standards are raised. We do not have any set period for painting or drawing in our kindergarten and primary grades. All kindergarten, first, second, and third grade classes have easels for painting and long-handled paint brushes. Several children use the easels all of the time, one group following the other in rapid succession. During periods when a group is working with the teacher, other children will be painting pictures. Each child paints one picture at least once every two days. Many teachers post a schedule for turns in painting and each child crosses off his name as he finishes. A group criticism of paintings is held once a day.