New
New
Year 2

Make a papier-maché paradise island

I can make a papier-mâché paradise island

New
New
Year 2

Make a papier-maché paradise island

I can make a papier-mâché paradise island

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Papier-mâché is a sculptural technique used to create texture and form.
  2. Artists build up sculptural surfaces using layers for strength and detail.
  3. Surface texture helps show natural features like rocks, trees or water.
  4. Working as a team supports large-scale art making.

Keywords

  • Papier-mâché - layers of paper and glue or flour used to create sculptures.

  • Layer - material placed on top of another

  • Surface texture - the way something feels

Common misconception

The pupils may think that one layer of papier-mâché is enough.

We need multiple layers to make it strong. Artists build layer by layer to shape and secure their sculpture.


To help you plan your year 2 art and design lesson on: Make a papier-maché paradise island, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

Pupils will need support to mix the papier-mâché paste. The paste can be made ahead of time and stored in airtight containers.
Teacher tip

Equipment

Island base, newspaper and papier-mâché paste, old brushes.

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

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

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
Construct means to something.

break
Correct answer: build
throw
colour

Q2.
Which of these would be best for the base of your island?

Tissue paper
Correct answer: Cardboard box
Cotton wool
String

Q3.
Match the word to what it means:

Correct Answer:Base,The bottom part something is built on

The bottom part something is built on

Correct Answer:Construct,To build or make something

To build or make something

Correct Answer:Collaborate,To work together

To work together

Q4.
Put these steps in the right order for building a paradise island base:

1 - Gather recycled materials
2 - Build the base
3 - Add features like trees and rocks
4 - Decorate the island with paint

Assessment exit quiz

Download quiz pdf

4 Questions

Q1.
What is papier-mâché made from?

Sand and glue
Paint and glitter
Correct answer: Paper and glue
Sticks and string

Q2.
We need to let each layer dry before adding the next one so .

it doesn’t get too heavy
Correct answer: the glue works properly
we can eat it
it doesn’t smell

Q3.
Match the material to its use in making a papier-mâché island:

Correct Answer:Newspaper,Paper for making layers

Paper for making layers

Correct Answer:Balloon,Round shape to build around

Round shape to build around

Correct Answer:Glue,Sticky liquid that holds the paper

Sticky liquid that holds the paper

Q4.
Put these steps in the correct order for making a papier-mâché island:

1 - Blow up the balloon
2 - Add layers of paper with glue
3 - Let the layers dry
4 - Paint your island