New
New
Devise a mark-making toolkit
I can create mark-making tools using a range of objects.
Lesson 2 of 6
New
New
- Year 5
Devise a mark-making toolkit
I can create mark-making tools using a range of objects.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Different cultures might use different traditional tools and methods for creating artwork.
- Using tools made from natural or found materials creates unique textures, patterns, and shapes for each artist.
- Samples or testers can be useful to explore mark-making before the artist starts a composition.
Keywords
Mark-making - the lines, dots and scratches created by tools
Tools - any object or material used to help create marks, shapes, or effects in a work of art
Traditional - something that is passed down through generations and is connected to the customs, beliefs, or practices of a particular culture or group
Common misconception
Traditionally, all cultures use paintbrushes to paint.
Remind children that although paintbrushes are a popular artistic tool, they are not traditional for every community or culture.
For Task B, teachers may wish to use watered down paint rather than ink as it is a more economical option for this experimental stage. When discussing Esther Mahlangu or First Nations Australian artists, emphasise that these traditions are living and evolving, not just historical.
Teacher tip
Equipment
access to a wide range of materials and objects, sticks, pegs, elastic bands, plastic packaging, watered down paint
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), 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.Match the term to its definition:
Match the term to its definition:
Q2.What is the focus of abstract art?
What is the focus of abstract art?
Realistic images
Historical facts
Q3.Abstract art uses shapes, and lines to convey feelings.
Abstract art uses shapes, and lines to convey feelings.
Q4.Abstract art tries to show things exactly as they look in real life.
Abstract art tries to show things exactly as they look in real life.
True
Q5.Which of these artists is known for abstract art?
Which of these artists is known for abstract art?
Monet
Van Gogh
Q6.In abstract art, artists may use to express feelings tied to personal experiences.
In abstract art, artists may use to express feelings tied to personal experiences.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to its definition:
Match the term to its definition:
Q2.Which of the following is NOT a reason for testing mark-making tools?
Which of the following is NOT a reason for testing mark-making tools?
To explore the tool's capabilities
To identify useful techniques
To record the process
Q3.Artists might create tools from materials found in their surroundings.
Artists might create tools from materials found in their surroundings.
Q4.Which of these is a mark-making tool?
Which of these is a mark-making tool?
A paintbrush
A dotting stick
Q5.Match the artist to their unique tool.
Match the artist to their unique tool.
Q6.Using unique materials helps to tell a through art.
Using unique materials helps to tell a through art.
