Spooky Art Exploration

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Lesson Overview

Curriculum Area: Art and Design
Level: Year 5 (Key Stage 2)
Duration: 120 minutes
Theme: Halloween

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Objectives

1. Sketchbook Practice:

   • Pupils will use sketchbooks to record notes, experiment, and collect ideas related to Halloween themes (Objective 2.1 and A2.2).

2. Mixed Media Mastery:

   • Pupils will create artwork using mixed media to explore changes in texture and pattern (Objective A2.5).

3. Printmaking Techniques:

   • Pupils will use natural and constructed objects to produce Halloween-themed prints (Objective A2.9).

4. Art Appreciation and Critique:

   • Pupils will compare artwork using appropriate terminology and comment on their work and that of others (Objectives A2.10 and A2.11).

5. Research Skills:

   • Pupils will research artists with similar themes and techniques using the internet (Objectives A2.12 and A2.13).

6. Adaptation and Reflection:

   • Pupils will make adaptations to their artwork, providing reasons for any changes (Objective A2.16).

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Materials Needed

• Sketchbooks
• Pencils, erasers
• Watercolours, brushes
• Mixed media materials (textured paper, fabric scraps, etc.)
• Natural objects for printing (leaves, twigs)
• Constructed objects for printing (potato stamps, sponges)
• Internet access for research
• Protective aprons or old shirts

Lesson Plan

Part 1: Introduction (15 minutes)

• Discussion: Begin with a brief discussion about Halloween. Ask pupils what objects, patterns, and ideas come to mind when they think of Halloween.
• Learning Objectives: Introduce the lesson objectives, connect them to the discussion points, and outline the activities planned.

Part 2: Sketchbook Exploration (20 minutes)

• Activity: Pupils will explore Halloween themes by making notes and sketches in their sketchbooks. Encourage them to experiment with different styles and techniques.
• Guidance: Direct students to think about textures and patterns they associate with Halloween, such as spider webs, pumpkins, and autumn leaves.

Part 3: Mixed Media Creations (30 minutes)

• Demonstration: Show pupils how to use different mixed media materials to create texture and pattern. Provide examples of how they might layer materials.
• Hands-on Activity: Pupils will design a Halloween-themed piece using mixed media. They should incorporate at least two different types of mediums (e.g., watercolours and textured paper).

Part 4: Printmaking Workshop (25 minutes)

• Techniques Overview: Briefly explain different printmaking techniques using natural and constructed objects.
• Print Creation: Pupils will experiment with various objects to create Halloween-themed prints (e.g., leaf ghost prints or pumpkin patterns).

Part 5: Research and Comparison (15 minutes)

• Research Task: In pairs, pupils will use the internet to research an artist known for thematic work (such as Edvard Munch with "The Scream").
• Compare and Discuss: Pupils compare the chosen artist's work with their own sketches and prints, focusing on similarities in style and technique.

Part 6: Reflection and Critique (15 minutes)

• Group Critique: Each pupil presents one piece of their work to the class. Use appropriate terminology to offer constructive criticism focusing on texture, pattern, and theme.
• Personal Reflection: Pupils reflect in their sketchbooks about their creative process and what they would change or keep in future projects.

Part 7: Conclusion and Homework (10 minutes)

• Wrap-Up: Recap what was learned and accomplished. Highlight pupils' willingness to adapt and develop their ideas creatively.
• Homework: Pupils are to bring in a small collection of natural materials from home, which can be incorporated into future art lessons or projects.

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Assessment

• Observation: Monitor pupils’ engagement, creativity, and the use of terminology during discussions and activities.
• Sketchbooks: Review each pupil’s sketchbook for their use of notes, ideas, and reflections.
• Art Critique: Evaluate the ability to provide articulate feedback and adapt their own work.

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This lesson plan aims to engage Year 5 pupils in a creative exploration of Halloween through diverse artistic practices. The activities are designed to enhance artistic skills, foster critical thinking, and instill an appreciation for art in connection with thematic concepts.