New
New
Plan for an assemblage sculpture
I can plan and gather personal objects for an assemblage sculpture.
Lesson 4 of 6
New
New
- Year 5
Plan for an assemblage sculpture
I can plan and gather personal objects for an assemblage sculpture.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Assemblage sculptures are made from items which have been found, gathered and arranged by an artist.
- Artists might use meaningful objects within their assemblage sculpture which represent their self-identity.
- By making intentional choices, the artist can share a message about their self-identity effectively with the viewer.
Keywords
Assemblage - an art form that involves creating a composition by combining objects into a unified artwork
Sculpture - a three-dimensional art form created by shaping or combining materials
Self-identity - how a person sees and understands who they are
Common misconception
Assemblage sculptures are carved or moulded.
Remind children that an assemblage sculpture is not usually carved or moulded, but parts are assembled using glue, tape, wire or thread.
For this lesson, children will need to make a list of objects to bring in from home ready for the following lesson. It may be helpful to use sticky notes for Task B rather than sketchbooks.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Sticky notes or small pieces of paper, pencils, sketchbooks.
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).
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is an art box?
What is an art box?
an empty box
a type of paint container
Q2.A base coat is applied to create an even and smooth background adding details over the top.
A base coat is applied to create an even and smooth background adding details over the top.
Q3.Match the terms to their definitions.
Match the terms to their definitions.
Q4.Why might artists use personal materials in their artwork?
Why might artists use personal materials in their artwork?
to make it look beautiful
to save money on art supplies
Q5.Artists can use to display their artwork besides frames and plinths.
Artists can use to display their artwork besides frames and plinths.
Q6.What should an artist consider when choosing the objects for their art box?
What should an artist consider when choosing the objects for their art box?
only the cost of materials
how quickly they can assemble the sculpture
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is an assemblage sculpture?
What is an assemblage sculpture?
a flat painting
a type of drawing
Q2.An art box can also be described as an sculpture.
An art box can also be described as an sculpture.
Q3.Match the terms to their definitions.
Match the terms to their definitions.
Q4.Why do artists use found or everyday objects in assemblage sculptures?
Why do artists use found or everyday objects in assemblage sculptures?
to create a flat representation
to make the sculpture heavier
Q5.Artists might plan and gather objects to create a sculpture that represents their ...
Artists might plan and gather objects to create a sculpture that represents their ...
Q6.What should an artist consider when selecting materials for their assemblage sculpture?
What should an artist consider when selecting materials for their assemblage sculpture?
only the cost of materials
how quickly they can assemble the sculpture