This Art and design scheme of work video introduces installation art and how to support pupils in exploring its key features and purpose. The video explains that installation art often makes use of space, a range of materials and scale to communicate a message.

In the first lesson, pupils explore what installation art is by comparing and discussing a range of artworks. The video suggests keeping the image sorting activity open-ended, encouraging pupils to spot patterns and label groups based on shared features. Pupils will be guided in identifying common elements of installations and using the question prompts to help deepen thinking about the ideas behind each artwork.

As outcomes of the lessons in this unit will vary, teachers are encouraged to view the unit as a whole and decide how best to guide their class through the learning journey.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 5 Interactive installation unit. It gives clear guidance to help children understand how installation artists use space and materials to shape the viewer’s experience and communicate ideas.

See more of our Year 5 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 5, Sculpture and 3D: Interactive installation, Lesson 1: What is installation art?.