
Shape and Form: Building Blocks of Art
Year 7 Visual Arts Lesson 3: Exploring the Seven Elements of Art

WALT (We Are Learning To)
Investigate the difference between geometric and organic shapes Understand how shape contributes to creating form in three dimensions Create a coloured paper collage incorporating both geometric and organic shapes Discuss how shape influences the perception of form in artworks

Geometric vs Organic Shapes
{"left":"Geometric Shapes: Regular, mathematical, precise\nExamples: circles, squares, triangles, rectangles\nFound in: architecture, logos, modern art\nCreated using: rulers, compasses, straight edges","right":"Organic Shapes: Irregular, natural, flowing\nExamples: leaf shapes, cloud forms, animal silhouettes\nFound in: nature, landscapes, abstract art\nCreated using: free-hand drawing, observation"}

Shape Hunt Challenge
Look around the classroom for 3 minutes Find and list 5 geometric shapes Find and list 5 organic shapes Share your discoveries with a partner Which type was easier to find? Why?

From Shape to Form: Adding Dimension
Shape = 2D (flat, has length and width) Form = 3D (has length, width, and depth) Techniques to create form from shapes: • Overlapping shapes creates depth • Shading adds volume • Size variation suggests distance • Layering builds dimension

Shape and Form in Famous Artworks

Create Your Shape Collage
Materials: coloured paper, scissors, glue, templates (if needed) Requirements: • Use at least 3 different geometric shapes • Include several organic shapes • Overlap shapes to create depth • Arrange to suggest form and dimension Time: 25 minutes

Reflection and Success Criteria Check
Can you identify geometric and organic shapes in your collage? How did you use shapes to create the illusion of form? What was challenging about this activity? What would you do differently next time? Success Criteria: ✓ I can differentiate between geometric and organic shapes ✓ I created a collage using both types of shapes ✓ I can explain how shapes contribute to form ✓ I can reflect on my artwork and describe elements used