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Cubism Uncovered

Art and Design • Year 8 • 45 • 10 students • Created with AI following Aligned with National Curriculum for England

Art and Design
8Year 8
45
10 students
6 April 2025

Cubism Uncovered

Lesson Overview

Duration:

45 minutes

Class Size:

8 students

Age Group:

Key Stage 2 (ages 7-11)

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the origins and key characteristics of the Cubist movement.
  2. Identify and discuss the works of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
  3. Describe how forms are broken down into geometric shapes.

Curriculum Links

  • National Curriculum for Art and Design (England)
    • Develop creativity and imagination through engaging with various artistic processes.
    • Explore the work of artists and designers from various times and cultures.
    • Use a range of materials and processes in their own artwork.

Resources Needed

  • Projector and screen for presentations
  • Images of Cubist artworks (Picasso and Braque)
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • A4 paper and pencils for sketches
  • Geometric shape cut-outs (cardboard or paper)
  • Art supplies (coloured pencils, watercolours, scissors, glue)

Lesson Breakdown

Introduction (10 minutes)

  • Hook Activity: Show a selection of Cubist artworks on the projector. Ask students what they see and how these artworks make them feel. Encourage them to look beyond the shapes.
  • Discussion Points:
    • What is Cubism?
    • Who are Picasso and Braque?
    • Why is Cubism considered revolutionary?

Direct Instruction (15 minutes)

  1. Origins of Cubism:

    • Briefly explain the historical context of the early 20th century, including key societal changes (industrialisation, World War I).
    • Introduce the concepts of breaking down forms and abstraction.
  2. Characteristics of Cubism:

    • Emphasise the use of geometric shapes, fragmentation of objects, and multiple perspectives.
    • Showcase specific artworks, highlighting these characteristics.
    • Anecdotes about Picasso and Braque’s friendship and influences which led to the birth of Cubism.

Group Activity (15 minutes)

  • Cubist Art Exploration:

    • Divide students into small groups (4 students each).
    • Assign a specific artwork by either Picasso or Braque to each group.
    • Each group will discuss the artwork and identify the geometric shapes used. They will sketch a simplified version of the work on A4 paper, focusing on geometric representation.
  • Sharing Findings: Each group presents their artwork to the class, explaining how it fits into Cubism and what makes it unique.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

  • Recap the key points about Cubism, Picasso, and Braque.
  • Discussion: What have students learned about the importance of seeing shapes in everyday objects?
  • Prompt students to think about how they might apply what they have learned to their own mask creations in upcoming lessons.

Assessment

  • Observe group discussions and presentations for understanding of Cubist principles.
  • Evaluate students' sketches for their ability to identify geometric shapes and Cubist characteristics.
  • A short exit ticket: One thing learned and one question they still have about Cubism.

Differentiation

  • Provide advanced students with additional artworks to analyse.
  • Offer additional support with simplified shapes for students who may struggle with the concepts.
  • Visual aids and examples will be provided for all students to enhance understanding.

Homework (if applicable)

  • Encourage students to find an object at home, break it down into geometric shapes, and bring a sketch to the next lesson.

Teacher Reflection

  • After the lesson, reflect on student engagement and understanding of the subject matter.
  • Assess if modifications are needed for future lessons based on observed student challenges and successes.

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