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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can create mark-making tools using a range of objects.

      Key learning points

      1. Different cultures might use different traditional tools and methods for creating artwork.
      2. Using tools made from natural or found materials creates unique textures, patterns, and shapes for each artist.
      3. 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.

      Teacher tip

      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.

      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:

      Correct Answer:Abstract art,art that does not try to represent something realistically

      art that does not try to represent something realistically

      Correct Answer:Emotion,a strong feeling like happiness, anger, or sadness

      a strong feeling like happiness, anger, or sadness

      Correct Answer:Response,a personal interpretation or reaction to an event, image or idea

      a personal interpretation or reaction to an event, image or idea

      Q2.
      What is the focus of abstract art?

      Realistic images
      Correct answer: Expressing emotions
      Historical facts

      Q3.
      Abstract art uses shapes, and lines to convey feelings.

      Correct Answer: colour, mark-making

      Q4.
      Abstract art tries to show things exactly as they look in real life.

      True
      Correct answer: False

      Q5.
      Which of these artists is known for abstract art?

      Monet
      Correct answer: Howardena Pindell
      Van Gogh

      Q6.
      In abstract art, artists may use to express feelings tied to personal experiences.

      Correct Answer: textures

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the term to its definition:

      Correct Answer:Mark-making,The lines, dots and scratches created by tools.

      The lines, dots and scratches created by tools.

      Correct Answer:Traditional,Something that is passed down through generations in cultures.

      Something that is passed down through generations in cultures.

      Correct Answer:Found objects,Items not originally intended for art.

      Items not originally intended for art.

      Correct Answer:Abstract art,Art created without representational forms.

      Art created without representational forms.

      Q2.
      Which of the following is NOT a reason for testing mark-making tools?

      Correct answer: To create a perfect composition
      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.

      Correct Answer: natural

      Q4.
      Which of these is a mark-making tool?

      A paintbrush
      A dotting stick
      Correct answer: Both

      Q5.
      Match the artist to their unique tool.

      Correct Answer:Esther Mahlangu,Chicken feathers

      Chicken feathers

      Correct Answer:First Nation Australian artists,Dotting sticks

      Dotting sticks

      Q6.
      Using unique materials helps to tell a through art.

      Correct Answer: personal story, story

      To help you plan your 5 art and design lesson on: Devise a mark-making toolkit, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...