Summary

This activity can be used as a whole class teaching tool. Pupils are introduced to the concept of geometric shapes in pictures via a full-screen shape picture of some boats. Through a number of screens parts of the picture are then looked at in detail to allow the pupils to discuss the various shapes used.

An interactive activity is then provided for pupils to create their own shape picture which can be printed. Practical activities are then suggested for the pupils to follow up the lesson, either individually or in groups, including a comparison to work by a Welsh artist.

Suitable for

Year 4

Using a non-interactive whiteboard

The activity will work the same using a normal computer. The mouse would need to be used instead of a finger to complete the activities and to navigate the screens. It would be best used as a group activity instead of a whole class activity due to the screen size.

Prior learning required

The names of basic geometric shapes - circle, triangle, semicircle, oval.

Aims and objectives

Knowledge and understanding:

to understand how the visual element of shape can be organised and combined for different purposes
to look at the roles and purposes of artists and craftspeople in different times and cultures, including Welsh examples

Vocabulary - triangle, semicircle, oval, circle
Artists - Kandinsky, Steven Jones

Timings

The whole class session following screens 1-4 would take approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The last activity where pupils make their own shape picture on screen would take pupils approximately 10 to 15 minutes each. If done individually, the activity would need to continue over a period of about one day to allow a class of pupils to all have a go.

Suggestions for group activities

Pupils could make a shape "boat" picture, using abstract shapes to create a similar image to the one shown. Shapes would be drawn freehand, using the ideas and examples set out in screens 1-4. Pupils could use crayons or paints to colour. If using paints, water colours and thin brushes would be recommended.
Pupils could make a shape collage of their picture using a variety of materials - sticky paper, crepe paper, fabrics, shiny paper, etc.
Pupils could work together in groups to create a large-scale shape picture of a boat. Several pieces of A3 card would need to be stuck together to make a base. Large cut-out shapes would be stuck on to make the picture.

Suggestions for differentiation

Instead of drawing shapes freehand, a variety of cardboard templates could be created to make it easier for pupils to draw around. A set would have to be made to include different sizes of each shape.

Further activities

Look at a picture of Boats at Porthleven, Steven Jones, oil, 2002. How is his picture of boats different to your boat picture? Can you see any shapes in his picture? Are there any shapes that you have used in your own picture? Fill in the worksheet comparing your picture to Steven Jones'.

National curriculum links

Welsh - artist's work - Boats at Porthleven, Steven Jones, oil, 2002.
Maths - shape work