This theme covers a wide area of the QCA schemes of work for art, craft and design and can be linked to cross curricular projects, particularly with Science.

Key techniques include:

• Collage
• Textiles
• Mosaic
• Clay
• Sculpture
• Card
• Junk
• Papier-mâché
• Clay
• Plaster casting
• Plasticine
• Salt dough
• Wood
• Soap

Use the questions from Science QCA schemes to initiate artwork on materials:
Unit 1C. Sorting and using materials
Unit 2D. Grouping and changing materials

This site also links to Art QCA schemes of work:
Unit 1b : Investigating materials

See also the NSEAD's Health & Safety Guide section on materials.

NSEAD Units of Work

Why work in three dimensions?
Introductory
Hay, materials, three dimensional, form, shape, space, hollow, solid, construction, modelling, resistant, plastic, malleable, sculpture, junk, technology The unit proposes a rationale for working in three dimensions. It outlines the kind of materials that are appropriate for three-dimensional work at introductory/intermediate level and the techniques that might be used.

Birds of Paradise - three dimensional design and construction project
advanced
Davies, UCE, birds, paradise, sculpture, images, research, investigating, maquettes, library, three dimensions, curriculum, attainment target, knowledge, understanding, collections, card This unit describes a three dimensional design and construction techniques using paper and card and inexpensive materials appropriate to school. Birds of Paradise, involved three schools in the West Midlands.

Constructing with paper and card
Introductory
Meager, construction, sculpture, card, glue, scissors, fix, tape, fasten, join, structure, technology, design. This unit is materials based and is experimental in intent. Using paper and card as the constructional materials children are first asked to seek ways of joining without the aid of fixing agents like glue, and then second, with glues, tapes and other devices. This is followed by looking at more sophisticated design solutions to construction in these materials.

Experimental tapestry weaving
Intermediate |
Duncan, tapestry, weaving, design, warp, weft, textiles, fabrics, experimental, yarn, thread The advantage of tapestry weaving is its versatility. This makes it an ideal vehicle for introducing young children to the world of weaving, fabrics and texture as well as helping to develop their language and imagination.