Mark-making using different tools
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain what tools are and can make different tools to create expressive mark-making
Key learning points
- It is important to experiment with different tools to discover the variety of marks each one can make
- Trying different approaches can lead to new discoveries, like flicking, smudging, smearing
- We can be adventurous with tools, using found objects can create interesting marks
Keywords
Mark-making - the process of creating different lines, textures, and patterns in art
Art tools - instruments or materials used by artists to create marks, textures, shapes, and forms in their artwork
Texture - in art this refers to the way a surface feels or looks like it feels
Common misconception
All paintings are made with paint brushes.
Using different types of tools helps abstract artists create lots of different types of expressive marks and textures in their work.
Teacher tip
This lesson could be linked to recycling and using recycled materials.
Equipment
Found objects, toothbrushes, cotton buds, natural forms, poster paint, matt emulsion or acrylic paint
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the primary difference between auditory and visual stimuli in art?
Q2.Match each natural element or concept with how it might inspire art
Fluid brushstrokes in painting
Seasonal colour palettes
Dramatic textures and emotion
Botanical illustrations
Light and shadow in photography
Dynamic motion in sculpture
Q3.What does abstract painting use to convey emotions or ideas?
Q4.Expressive artworks use dynamic brushstrokes and bold colours to communicate rather than depict reality.
Q5.In art, stimuli can be visual, auditory, or elements that evoke reactions
Q6.What do different stimuli like nature, emotions, and music help artists do in their artwork?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.How have different cultures used tools in art throughout history?
Q2. is the process of creating different marks, lines, textures, and patterns in art
Q3.Why is it important to experiment with different tools in art?
Q4.Why is using different types of tools important for abstract artists?
Q5.What does texture in art refer to?
Q6.Custom mark-making tools allow artists to tailor their creative process to their vision.
To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Mark-making using different tools, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Mark-making using different tools, 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 3 art and design lessons from the Abstract painting: sustainable materials unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.