Lesson Plan

• Describe how visual elements (subject, composition, colour, texture, technique, symbolism) convey ideas and emotions in painting.
• Analyse and apply the six key elements of painting (line, shape, colour, value, texture, space) when planning artwork.
• Demonstrate a structured creative process—from research to evaluation—choosing appropriate media to support the intended communication.
• Evaluate finished work against IGCSE criteria, reflecting on technical skill, visual element use and clarity of concept.

• Projector and screen
• Printed handouts of visual‑element tables and IGCSE criteria
• Acrylic, oil and watercolour paints with brushes
• Canvas panels, linen boards, water‑colour paper, sketchbooks
• Pencils, erasers, charcoal sticks
• Colour‑mixing charts and personal colour wheels
• Digital devices for research (optional)

Begin with a quick question: “How does a single colour change the mood of a scene?” Students share ideas, linking to prior lessons on line and shape. Explain that today they will explore how all visual elements and media choices work together to communicate ideas, and set the success criteria: identify elements, create a thumbnail plan, and select suitable media.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Sketch a simple object focusing on basic shapes and value relationships.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Using the projector, explain how subject, composition, colour, texture, technique and symbolism convey meaning.
3. Media Overview (10') – Demonstrate characteristics of acrylic, oil, watercolour and mixed media; students note key uses.
4. Planning Activity (15') – In pairs, create a mood board and three thumbnail sketches for a chosen theme; write a brief concept statement.
5. Colour Study & Technique Demo (15') – Students produce a small colour study, experimenting with layering, glazing or impasto as appropriate to their chosen medium.
6. Peer Critique & Reflection (10') – Present work‑in‑progress, give structured feedback using IGCSE criteria, and note next steps for the final piece.

Recap the ways visual elements and media choices shape communication in painting. For the exit ticket, each student writes one specific media decision they will make for their upcoming artwork and why. Homework: research a historical painting technique (e.g., tempera or glazing) and bring a reference image to share in the next class.