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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use my insights to develop new innovative experiements

      Key learning points

      1. Idea development is iterative. Each trial can lead to new insights, refining the original concept.
      2. Keeping thorough records of trials, including outcomes and reflections helps you track progress and identify successes.
      3. Taking risks can lead to unexpected and innovative results.

      Keywords

      • Iterative - repeating a process or idea many times to improve or develop it further

      • Insights - a new idea, or deeper understanding, usually recorded in your sketchbook

      • Intention - the purpose or reason behind an artist’s work or how they want viewers to feel or think

      • Innovation - creating new and original ideas, techniques, or styles

      Common misconception

      You don't need to record failures as it will lower your GCSE grade.

      Record all of your experiments, but make it clear in your work that you know which ones were successful and take these forward in your creative journey. This is evidence of your informed and insightful approach. This will attract a higher mark.

      Teacher tip

      Consider prior to the lesson how to direct students in terms of the most appropriate presentation types for your specialism.

      Equipment

      Choose materials suitable for your specialism but offer a wide range to enable students to experiment freely.

      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.
      Which of these is part of the visual language of art?

      Correct answer: Line, shape, colour
      Pencil case and sketchbook
      Photography equipment
      An artist’s biography

      Q2.
      True or False? All experiments in art must be successful to be useful.

      True
      Correct answer: False

      Q3.
      Match the key art term to its meaning:

      Correct Answer:Intention,The purpose or message behind your work

      The purpose or message behind your work

      Correct Answer:Experimentation,Testing new ideas, materials, or processes

      Testing new ideas, materials, or processes

      Correct Answer:Reflection,Looking back to evaluate what worked and what could improve

      Looking back to evaluate what worked and what could improve

      Q4.
      Why do artists use sketchbooks?

      To keep finished artworks safe
      Correct answer: To record experiments, ideas and reflections
      To replace a portfolio
      To avoid using larger canvases

      Q5.
      Which of these artists famously used personal diaries filled with sketches and written reflections?

      Vincent van Gogh
      Correct answer: Frida Kahlo
      Antony Gormley
      Pablo Picasso

      Q6.
      Match the material or technique to what it might help an artist explore:

      Correct Answer:Ink wash,Creating tonal depth and mood

      Creating tonal depth and mood

      Correct Answer:Collage,Layering and combining textures

      Layering and combining textures

      Correct Answer:Photography,Capturing fleeting moments

      Capturing fleeting moments


      To help you plan your 11 art and design lesson on: Develop ideas: trials and experiments, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...