What are the features of effective learning and teaching in the expressive arts?

The framework of experiences and outcomes supports staff in meeting the needs of children and young people through providing a wide range of carefully planned, well-paced learning experiences.

Within a rich, supportive environment teachers will draw upon a skilful mix of approaches to promote a climate of creativity and innovation, including:

• active involvement in creative activities and performances
• tasks or performance opportunities which require a creative response
• opportunities to perform or present to an audience
• partnerships with professional performers or artists and other creative adults
• raising awareness of contemporary culture and connecting with young people’s experiences
• appropriate, effective use of technology
• building on the principles of Assessment is for Learning
• both collaborative and independent learning
• establishing links within the expressive arts subjects and with the wider curriculum
• opportunities to analyse, explore and reflect.

The majority of activities in the expressive arts involve creating and presenting and are practical and experiential. Evaluating and appreciating are an integral part of the creative process and are linked to developing creative skills, knowledge and understanding and enhancing enjoyment.