This archived Art and design scheme of work video is part of a lesson in which pupils are introduced to the terms abstract and composition, using shape as a formal element of art.

Children begin by exploring circles of different sizes, inspired by the work of Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes. Working in pairs, they experiment with composition by moving, overlapping, and even cutting the shapes to create interesting arrangements. Pupils are encouraged to discuss the effects with their peers and photograph their favourite designs. Using their photo as a guide, they then recreate their chosen composition by gluing shapes in place. To add emphasis, children can outline selected shapes in black, considering how this changes the overall effect. By the end of the lesson, pupils will have created their unique abstract artwork, developing their understanding of shape and composition.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s archived Year 1 Formal elements of art unit.

See more of our original Key stage 1 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Key stage 1, Formal elements of art, Lesson 1: Shape: Abstract compositions – Option 1.