This archived Art and design scheme of work video supports teachers in confidently leading a class discussion about a piece of artwork, using Carl Giles’ cartoon Mother’s Day as the focus.

Cartoons are often dismissed as not being “real” art because they’re humorous—but Giles’ detailed illustrations show real artistic skill. His work, which appeared in the Daily Express for many years, is full of character, narrative and technical brilliance, making it ideal for classroom exploration. The video models how to talk with children about what they can see in the picture, beginning with observation. Children are encouraged to find the humour in the scene, and spot small details.

Teachers are guided through questions that explore visual elements—such as where the picture is light or dark, how colour and arrangement draw the eye, and how shape and line communicate meaning. Even in a static image, details like shadows give movement, while the characters’ expressions tell their own stories.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s original Key Stage 2 Art and Design skills unit.

See more of our archived Key Stage 2 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Key Stage 2, Art and Design skills, Lesson 1: Learning about… Carl Giles.