Lesson Plan

• Describe how positive and negative space influence visual communication.
• Explain the differences between symmetrical, asymmetrical, and radial balance and identify appropriate contexts.
• Analyse primary, complementary, analogous and triadic colour relationships and apply them to convey mood and readability.
• Apply a systematic design‑process checklist to develop a graphic piece that meets a brief.
• Evaluate a finished design for effective use of space, balance and colour.

• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Sketch paper and pencils
• Colour wheel chart
• Ruler and grid templates
• Coloured pencils or markers
• Handout of the design‑process checklist
• Digital devices (optional for research)

Begin with a quick visual challenge: show three contrasting posters and ask students to spot how space, balance and colour guide the viewer’s eye. Recall their prior work on basic composition principles and set the success criteria: students will be able to label balance types, choose appropriate colour schemes and produce a balanced layout.

1. Do‑now (5') – Examine sample posters; record observations of space, balance and colour.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Teacher revisits key concepts using projector and colour‑wheel diagram.
3. Guided practice (15') – Whole‑class analysis of a brief; create a quick thumbnail, label balance type and colour scheme.
4. Independent work (20') – Students develop a grid, refine their thumbnail, select a palette; teacher circulates for feedback.
5. Peer review (10') – Pairs use the checklist to evaluate each other’s design for space, balance and colour; provide constructive comments.
6. Whole‑class reflection (5') – Discuss common strengths and pitfalls; revisit success criteria.
7. Exit ticket (5') – Write one specific improvement they will make to the final design regarding space or colour.

Summarise how effective use of space, balanced composition and intentional colour relationships enhance communication. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign homework: complete the final design using the grid and colour palette, then bring a printed version for the next lesson’s critique.