This Art and design scheme of work video supports pupils as they explore different ways of applying paint to create a range of effects. It encourages experimentation and introduces techniques used by a range of artists.

The video begins by showing how dabbing paint with a medium brush can add texture and movement. Next, children will see how stippling can build texture and blend colours directly on the paper. A more precise version of this, known as pointillism, uses dots of paint and can be tried with a cotton bud. The video also introduces colour washes by adding water to make paint thinner and more transparent. Pupils can explore layering washes and watching colours bleed together on wet paper. To take it further, the video suggests changing the texture of paint by mixing in materials like salt, glitter, or even lentils.

Finally, pupils are encouraged to paint without a brush, instead using sponges, fingers, spatulas or glue spreaders.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 4 Light and dark unit.

See more of our Year 4 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 4, Painting and mixed media: Year 4, Lesson 3: Painting techniques.