The subversive power of quilting
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain what subversive quilting is and design a quilt square to tell a story.
Key learning points
- Quilting is a method of stitching layers of material together to create a blanket, often includes patterns or images.
- Quilting has been used by artists as a form of activism, to raise awareness about social issues.
- Quilting is often collaborative with several people working on a project together.
Keywords
Quilting - is a method of stitching layers of material together to create a blanket, often includes patterns or images
Subversive - the practice of challenging traditional ideas or social norms
Symbol - is a sign, object, or image that stands for something else
Symbolism - is the use of symbols to express deeper meanings or ideas
Common misconception
Quilts are just blankets or decorative items and don’t have any deeper meaning.
While quilts are often used for warmth or decoration, many artists use quilts to share powerful stories and messages. Quilts can be a way for artists to speak out about important issues and make sure voices are heard.
Teacher tip
Having computer access would help pupils research a range of symbols for their quilt story design.
Equipment
A square of paper, a selction of media which could include: pencils, pens, collage materials or adhesive fabric.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which statement best describes who can be an artist or craftsperson?
Q2.What is the most accurate description of quilting?
Q3.What does decoration refer to?
Q4.Symbols are often simplified shapes that help to represent big ideas or concepts in a more way.
Q5.What does this gesture refer to?
Q6.Match the colour with what it might symbolise culturally.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match these terms with the correct definition.
Q2.What does "subversive quilting" mean?
Q3.How are messages commonly communicated through quilting?
Q4.What is the most common symbolism of this image?
Q5.Put these steps in the correct order for creating a subversive quilt design.
Q6.Subversive quilting can inspire and empower others.
To help you plan your 7 art and design lesson on: The subversive power of quilting, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 art and design lesson on: The subversive power of quilting, 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 An overview of craft unit, dive into the full secondary art and design curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.