New
New
Responding to organic forms with card, papers and modroc
I can construct a recycled materials and modroc sculpture inspired by natural forms.
Lesson 2 of 6
New
New
- Year 8
Responding to organic forms with card, papers and modroc
I can construct a recycled materials and modroc sculpture inspired by natural forms.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Artists turn to nature to find shapes, textures, and colours which could inspire sculptural forms
- By experimenting with various materials, like clay, paper, or fabrics, we can create unique shapes and forms
- We can use sculptural features and designs to express culture, history and emotions
Keywords
Construction - the process of building or assembling materials to create a structure
Form - a three-dimensional shape that has height, width, and depth, like a cube or sphere
Freestanding - a structure that stays upright without support from walls or other objects
Common misconception
Aritsts can only take direct inspiration from nature, copying it exactly.
Artists have always taken inspiration from nature and can use this as a starting point to develop into complex works.
The additional materials contains further information and detail about the artists suggested in the deck. Be mindful that some studnets may have skin sensitivity to modroc, gloves may be useful to have on hand.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Modrock, water, rope, plastic bottles, roll tubes, cardboard, newspaper and masking tape. Optional: paint, brushes etc
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 does "biomorphic" mean in art and design?
What does "biomorphic" mean in art and design?
Copied from other artists
Inspired by machines
Only used in painting
Q2.A sculpture must have good so it doesn’t fall over.
A sculpture must have good so it doesn’t fall over.
Q3.What is the purpose of a “flange” in sculpture building?
What is the purpose of a “flange” in sculpture building?

To decorate the surface
To make it heavier
To stop it from drying
Q4.Paper mâché is made by layering paper and .
Paper mâché is made by layering paper and .
Q5.Match the keyword to its meaning:
Match the keyword to its meaning:
Q6.Which of these is most likely to be used to create organic-looking sculptures?
Which of these is most likely to be used to create organic-looking sculptures?
Graph paper
Spray paint
Rulers and stencils
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What does "freestanding" mean in sculpture?
What does "freestanding" mean in sculpture?
Attached to a wall
Built with glue only
Made of soft materials
Q2.Artists often use forms to express emotions and ideas inspired by nature.
Artists often use forms to express emotions and ideas inspired by nature.
Q3.Why might an artist sketch before building a sculpture?
Why might an artist sketch before building a sculpture?
To copy other artists
To practise drawing
To test their pencils
Q4.Match the keyword to its definition:
Match the keyword to its definition:
Q5.Artists often look to for ideas about shapes, textures, and colours.
Artists often look to for ideas about shapes, textures, and colours.
Q6.Put these steps for working with modroc into the correct order:
Put these steps for working with modroc into the correct order: