Lesson Plan: Acrylic Techniques 1: Brushwork

Acrylic Brushwork Techniques

Year Level: Year 10

Duration: 90 minutes

Class Size: 12 students

Unit: Exploring Picasso's Acrylics (Lesson 4 of 10)

Learning Objectives

WALT (We Are Learning To):

Learn and identify at least three different brushwork techniques in acrylic painting.
Practice applying varied brushstrokes to express texture, form, and movement in an artwork.
Understand how brushwork contributes to artistic style, referencing Picasso’s acrylic techniques.

Success Criteria:

Demonstrate three or more distinct brushwork techniques in acrylic paint exercises.
Explain how these techniques affect texture and visual impact in their own and Picasso’s paintings.
Apply brushwork techniques creatively in a short acrylic painting practice.

Australian Curriculum (v9) alignment

Learning Area: The Arts – Visual Arts Year Level: 9 and 10

Relevant Content Descriptions:

AC9AVA10D01: Experiment with visual conventions, visual arts processes and materials to develop skills.
AC9AVA10C01: Evaluate critical feedback when planning, developing and refining their visual arts practice.
AC9AVA10E01: Investigate ways artists develop personal expression in their visual arts practice and communicate ideas through techniques and materials.

These support students to develop their technical skills in acrylic painting and understand artistic expression and intention through brushwork, aligned with the focus on Picasso's unique style.

Resources Required

Acrylic paints (primary colours plus black and white)
Variety of brush types (flat, round, fan, filbert)
Acrylic paper or canvas boards (A4–A3 size)
Water containers, palettes, rags/paper towels
Visual reference images of Picasso’s paintings demonstrating brushwork (printed or projected)
Step-by-step visual and written guide sheets (dyslexia-friendly, clear font, concise instructions, pictorial prompts)
Whiteboard or screen for live demonstration
Chairs and tables arranged for easy viewing and group work

Lesson Breakdown

1. Introduction & Engagement (15 minutes)

Begin with a short conversational warm-up: "What kinds of brushwork can we see in Picasso’s acrylic paintings? How do you think brushwork changes what we see or feel in a painting?"
Show projected or printed examples of Picasso’s acrylic works focusing on brush marks and textures.
Introduce the lesson objective (WALT) and display success criteria clearly on board for student reference.
Explain that today they will explore and practice three important acrylic brushstroke techniques to build their skills and creative expression.
Briefly introduce the importance of varied brushwork in painting and its role in conveying emotion, texture, and light.

Differentiation Tip: Offer verbal descriptions alongside visual examples. Use simple language, repeat key points to support diverse learners including those with dyslexia.

2. Live Demonstration (20 minutes)

Demonstrate three distinct brushstroke techniques slowly and clearly:

Dry brush: Using a relatively dry brush to create scratchy, textured strokes.
Flat brush strokes: Filling areas with smooth, broad, consistent strokes for even coverage.
Impasto or thick strokes: Applying thicker paint with noticeable brush marks for texture and movement.

Use close-up visual aid or projected live demo so all students can see brush handling.
Explain the purpose and effect of each technique in context to Picasso’s artworks.
Invite questions and encourage students to verbally describe what they see.

Differentiation Tip: Provide a step-by-step laminated guide sheet for students who benefit from written instructions. Offer one-on-one support during demonstration if needed.

3. Guided Practice: Brushstroke Exercises (30 minutes)

Distribute palette, paper, brushes, and paint to pairs or individual students.
Students will practice each brushstroke technique in small rectangles or shapes on paper:
Dry brush texture (e.g., create leaf-like patterns or rough surfaces)
Smooth flat strokes filling shape evenly
Thick impasto marks (play with weight of brush)
Encourage students to experiment with brush angle, pressure, and paint amount.
Teacher circulates to provide live verbal feedback, encouragement, and scaffolding.

Differentiation Tip: Allow slower learners extra time or simplified tasks such as focusing on two techniques. Provide examples with stroke patterns they can imitate.

4. Creative Extension: Mini-Painting (20 minutes)

Students create a small acrylic study applying at least three brush techniques learned.
Suggested subjects: simple objects or abstract shapes inspired by Picasso’s style, focusing on brushwork rather than detail.
Encourage students to think about variety in texture, stroke direction, and emphasis.
Students are prompted to reflect on which technique creates the most interesting effects or suits their style.

5. Reflection & Group Discussion (5 minutes)

Group reflection circle or pairs share:
Which brush techniques did they enjoy or find challenging?
How can different brushstrokes change the mood or look of a painting?
How might Picasso’s brushwork techniques influence their own art?
Recap success criteria and ask students to self-assess their demonstration of brush techniques.

Assessment Opportunities

Formative assessment through observation during exercises and mini-painting to ensure students demonstrate variety of brushwork.
Peer feedback during group reflection to promote critical thinking and communication skills.
Teacher notes on individual progress and engagement for future planning.

Additional Differentiation and Support

Dyslexia-friendly materials featuring clear fonts, bullet points, and labelled images.
Step-by-step visual guides and live demonstrations complement written instructions.
Peer support pairing for varied skill levels.
Use of positive and encouraging language to build confidence and enjoyment.
Flexible timing or task modification for students needing extra support.

Health and Safety Notes

Ensure protective aprons or old shirts for students.
Encourage careful handling of brushes and paint to minimise spills.
Provide easy access to water and clean-up materials.

This lesson plan strengthens students’ practical skillset in acrylic painting brushwork while linking techniques to historic art practice explored via Picasso’s style. It encourages a playful and conversational classroom atmosphere aligned with the teacher’s preferences, catering for various ability levels and maintaining active engagement in a 90-minute session.

The plan is fully aligned to the Australian Curriculum (v9) for Visual Arts at Year 10, meeting key content descriptors related to skills development, reflection, and investigation of artists’ techniques.

Let me know if you want me to also script a detailed teacher talk track or printable handout for the lesson!