Patterns in nature
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can carefully observe patterns in nature and record them in my sketchbook.
Key learning points
- Patterns can be found in nature, such as in leaves, shells, animal markings and flowers.
- Natural patterns can be symmetrical, spiral, or repeating.
- Observing and recording patterns in a sketchbook helps us develop ideas for artwork.
- Thick, thin, wavy or curvy lines can be used to create unique patterns.
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
Symmetry - a shape or object that can be split into two matching halves
Common misconception
Pupils may think that all repeating patterns are natural patterns, even if they are man-made.
To help clarify, you could emphasise that natural patterns are found in nature. Nature walks can be a hands-on way to help students discover natural patterns.
Teacher tip
Encourage students to look closely at the world around them—patterns in nature can be found everywhere. Inspire curiosity by integrating cross-curricular links, such as the connection between maths, science and art, to show how patterns form and repeat in different contexts.
Equipment
Mark-making media, images of patterns in nature, tracing paper.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are natural?
Q2.Which of these best describes a pattern?
Q3.Match the pattern to the correct word.
natural
human-made
natural
human-made
Q4.True or false: we can find patterns in nature
Q5.When we trace something, what are we doing?
Q6.True or false: the butterfly's wings in this picture is symmetrical
Assessment exit quiz
5 Questions
Q1.What is a pattern?
Q2.Which of the following is an example of a natural pattern?
Q3.What does symmetry mean in patterns?
Q4.How can artists use patterns found in nature?
Q5.Match where you might find these patterns on a pattern hunt.
repeated stripes
symmetrical spots
spiral pattern
To help you plan your 3 art and design lesson on: Patterns in nature, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 art and design lesson on: Patterns in nature, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 art and design lessons from the Perfect Patterns: drawing and design unit, dive into the full primary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.