This Art and design scheme of work video helps pupils transform their map drawings into 3D artwork by creating a relief map that combines materials, texture and imagination.

The video explains that 3D means having height, width and depth, like real-world objects. Pupils learn about relief maps, which use raised surfaces to show features like mountains, valleys, rivers and roads.

Using strong cardboard as a base, children follow their map drawings to guide their designs. They can work directly on the cardboard or decorate it with paint and paper first. The video suggests creative ways to show different features. Pupils are encouraged to think carefully about overlapping elements and to experiment with colours and textures. There are no right or wrong choices.

Once all the features are added, pupils can draw or build extra details and reflect on their work as a piece of art. The lesson ends with everyone placing their maps together to form one large, imaginative landscape.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 2 Map it out unit.

See more of our Year 2 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 2, Craft and design: Map it out, Lesson 2: Relief maps.