New
New
Investigating patterns in art
I can explore different patterns in art and discuss how they are used for decoration.
Lesson 2 of 6
New
New
- Year 3
Investigating patterns in art
I can explore different patterns in art and discuss how they are used for decoration.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Patterns and decoration are used in art and design across different cultures.
- Artists and designers create patterns using repetition, symmetry, and different shapes.
- Sketchbooks can be used to record and explore patterns, helping to develop ideas.
Keywords
Pattern - a design in which lines, shapes, forms or colours are repeated
Line - a mark made by a moving point, such as a pencil or brush
Common misconception
Patterns in art are always symmetrical and repetitive.
While many patterns do follow symmetrical or repetitive structures, patterns in art can also be organic, irregular, and asymmetrical.
Whilst this is a research lesson, show real life examples and examples from different cultures and time periods to highlight the diverse ways artists use patterns.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Computer/tablet, mark-making media.
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
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the words to their meaning.
Match the words to their meaning.
Q2.Which of these are natural patterns?
Which of these are natural patterns?
stripes on socks
a blue and white football shirt
Q3.Match the type patterns.
Match the type patterns.
Q4.When artists look for inspiration, how might they make their patterns unique?
When artists look for inspiration, how might they make their patterns unique?
only paint
only numbers and letters
Q5.We can explore the lines and shapes in nature by over them.
We can explore the lines and shapes in nature by over them.
Q6.Match the words to the definition.
Match the words to the definition.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Patterns are always symmetrical.
Patterns are always symmetrical.
True
Q2.Yayoi Kusama is known for using in her art.
Yayoi Kusama is known for using in her art.
Q3.What type of pattern is often symmetrical?
What type of pattern is often symmetrical?
random
chaotic
Q4.Match these artists to their style of work.
Match these artists to their style of work.
Q5.Patterns can be inspired by ...
Patterns can be inspired by ...
Q6.What is an example of a material an artist might use to create patterns?
What is an example of a material an artist might use to create patterns?
water
air
