United Kingdom · National Curriculum Attainment Targets
Year 1 Art and Design
A foundational course introducing Year 1 students to the essential elements of art through tactile exploration and observation. Students develop fine motor skills while learning to express ideas through drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
Lines, Marks, and Making
Students explore the fundamental building blocks of drawing by experimenting with different tools and pressure. This unit focuses on translating observed shapes onto paper using various graphite and charcoal techniques.
Identifying and creating different types of lines such as thick, thin, wavy, and jagged. Students discover how lines can represent movement and emotion.
Drawing from direct observation of natural objects like shells and leaves. Students focus on looking closely at details before making marks.
Using mirrors to observe facial features and proportions. Students create their first formal self-portrait using charcoal and pencils.
The Magic of Colour
An introduction to colour theory through hands-on mixing and application. Students learn about primary colours and how to create secondary shades using paint.
Discovering red, yellow, and blue as the starting point for all other colours. Students explore the properties of tempera paint.
Active experimentation in mixing primary colours to create orange, green, and purple. Students apply these to a landscape painting.
Investigating how artists use colour to express mood. Students look at works by Van Gogh and Rothko to discuss feelings.
Sculpture and Space
Moving from 2D to 3D by working with clay and recycled materials. Students learn basic joining techniques and explore volume.
Building tall structures using cardboard boxes and found objects. Focus on balance and structural integrity.
Exploring the space between flat drawing and 3D sculpture by folding, curling, and tearing paper.
Patterns in Our World
An exploration of repetition and rhythm in art. Students look at textiles and nature to create their own printed patterns.
Using everyday items like sponges, corks, and leaves to create repeating patterns on fabric or paper.
Introduction to basic weaving using paper strips or wool. Students learn the over and under technique to create a grid.
Looking at patterns from different cultures, such as African Kente cloth or Islamic tile art.
Artists Through Time
Introducing significant artists and movements. Students compare works from the past and present to understand how art changes.
Exploring how the first artists made marks on cave walls and comparing them to modern paintings.
Studying Henri Matisse and his cut outs. Students create their own compositions using scissors as a drawing tool.
Looking at contemporary artists who use unusual materials like plastic or digital screens.
Storytelling Through Art
Using art to narrate stories and depict sequences. Students combine their skills in drawing and painting to create a final project.
Creating images that match a specific character or setting from a well known story.
Breaking a story down into three parts: beginning, middle, and end. Students draw a simple sequence.
Preparing and exhibiting final works. Students practice talking about their own art and the work of others.