New
New
Develop understanding of symbolism: collect and draw objects
I can collect and draw meaningful objects that represent symbols in a story.
Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
- Year 6
Develop understanding of symbolism: collect and draw objects
I can collect and draw meaningful objects that represent symbols in a story.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Objects can be chosen intentionally to represent personal or story-based symbolism.
- Observational drawing improves when artists focus on shape, detail and proportion.
- Arranging objects thoughtfully supports stronger compositions and storytelling in art.
Keywords
Still life - a drawing or painting of inanimate objects arranged for observation
Observation - looking carefully at objects to notice details for accurate drawing
Narrative - the story or message conveyed through art
Common misconception
Any object can be used as it doesn’t have to mean anything.
Objects can be used to help tell stories and add depth and meaning through what they symbolise.
Use open-ended questions like “What does this object remind you of?” or “How could this show part of your story?” to encourage thoughtful selection and deeper engagement.
Teacher tip
Equipment
A range of small objects (personal or classroom-sourced). Pencils, erasers. Camera or tablet (optional, for documenting object collection).
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a 'sketch'?
What is a 'sketch'?
A finished painting
A type of sculpture
A list of materials
Q2.Which of these could be a symbol in a character design?
Which of these could be a symbol in a character design?
The character’s shoes size
The type of pencil used
The artist’s name
Q3.Match these steps to what they mean in character design:
Match these steps to what they mean in character design:
Q4.Put these colours in order from calmest to most energetic mood:
Put these colours in order from calmest to most energetic mood:
Q5.What word means a quick drawing to show an idea?
What word means a quick drawing to show an idea?
Q6.What word means the feeling or atmosphere a character shows?
What word means the feeling or atmosphere a character shows?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a still life in art?
What is a still life in art?
A moving sculpture
A drawing of animals in action
A comic strip
Q2.What does the word observation mean in drawing?
What does the word observation mean in drawing?
Guessing what something looks like
Drawing with your eyes closed
Copying another artist’s style
Q3.What kind of art did Amrita Sher-Gil create?
What kind of art did Amrita Sher-Gil create?
Abstract sculptures showing animals
Digital animations of cityscapes
Street graffiti in urban settings
Q4.Match the word to its meaning:
Match the word to its meaning:
Q5.Put these steps in the correct order when planning a symbolic still life.
Put these steps in the correct order when planning a symbolic still life.
Q6.What word means a group of objects arranged for drawing or painting?
What word means a group of objects arranged for drawing or painting?
