Colour and Texture

Overview

This 1-hour lesson is designed for Year 3 students with learning difficulties, focusing on exploring colour and texture in art. It is fully aligned with the National Curriculum for England key stage 2 Art and Design standards, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all learners through differentiated activities and SMART targets.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

• Develop an understanding of colour mixing and texture through hands-on practical activities (NC KS2: Use a range of materials creatively to design and make products)
• Explore sensory qualities of materials to foster creativity and communication (NC KS2: Experiment with different effects and textures)
• Express ideas visually, using simple patterns, shapes and textures (NC KS2: Create sketch books to record observations and use them to review and revisit ideas)
• Develop fine motor control for art-related tasks

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SMART Targets for Learners

Name	Specific	Measurable	Achievable	Relevant	Time-bound
Student A	Mix two primary colours to make a new colour	Successfully mix colour and name it	Use finger paints to complete mixing	Supports understanding of colour theory	During 15-minute activity
Student B	Create a textured pattern on paper	Add at least two distinct textures	Use household items like sponge or fabric	Enhances sensory exploration and creativity	By end of lesson
Student C	Identify colours and textures used	Point out and name colours/textures in their work	Supported verbal prompts	Reinforces communication and vocabulary	By plenary at lesson end

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Resources

• Finger paints in primary colours
• Various textured materials (cotton wool, sponge, sandpaper, foil)
• Thick paper or card sheets
• Brushes, sponges, and glue sticks
• Visual aids with colour wheels and texture examples
• Adaptive tools if required (easy grip brushes)

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Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (10 mins)

• Engage: Discuss what colours are and introduce the concept of mixing primary colours (red, blue, yellow) to make secondary colours. Use visual aids to support comprehension.
• Sensory focus: Pass around textured materials to encourage students to feel and describe them (e.g. rough, smooth).

2. Main Activity (30 mins)

• Colour Mixing (15 minutes):
  • Each student uses finger paints to mix two chosen primary colours on paper to create a new colour. Teachers and support staff provide one-to-one scaffolding as needed.
• Texture Exploration (15 minutes):
  • Using glue and textured materials, students create a simple collage showing different textures. Students are encouraged to verbalise or gesture preferences.

3. Reflection and Sharing (15 mins)

• Each student shows their artwork and shares one colour and one texture they used, supported by visuals or prompts.
• Teacher models language for describing textures and colours, reinforcing learning objectives.

4. Plenary (5 mins)

• Recap on key vocabulary: primary colours, mixing, texture (rough, smooth, bumpy).
• Positive reinforcement and acknowledgement of all achievements aligned with SMART targets.

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Assessment and Monitoring

• Informal observations recorded on student engagement and ability to mix colours and apply textures.
• Use a simple checklist linked to each SMART target for each student.
• Collect work samples (photos or pieces) for ongoing portfolios/sketchbooks.
• Evaluate communication skills and use of art vocabulary.

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Differentiation and Inclusion

• Tasks are segmented into small, manageable steps with scaffolded instructions.
• Provide sensory breaks if required.
• Use adapted tools or assistive technology for students with physical disabilities.
• Offer alternative means of expression: allowing some students to use gestures or verbal communication rather than writing.

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Curriculum Links

National Curriculum for England - Key Stage 2: Art and Design

• “Pupils [should] use a range of materials creatively to design and make products” (Programme of Study)
• “They should be taught to create sketch books to record their observations and use them to review and revisit ideas”
• “They should improve their mastery of art and design techniques, including colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space”

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This lesson plan uses creative, sensory-rich methods to engage Year 3 students with learning difficulties, fostering their confidence and achievement in line with the national standards while promoting inclusion and communication.