Unit Plan 20 (Grade 1 Art): Pattern & Repetition

Focus: Use repeating shapes, lines, and colors on purpose to create interesting patterns in artwork.

Grade Level: 1

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Creating)

Total Unit Duration: 1–3 weeks, 45–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, first graders become pattern makers. They learn that patterns are made when shapes, lines, or colors repeat in an order, like stripes, dots, zigzags, or shape rows. Students look for patterns in their clothes, classroom objects, and pictures, then create their own patterns using simple lines and shapes. They practice being intentional, choosing what to repeat and where to put it on the page. By the end, students can create artwork that uses pattern and repetition on purpose, not just by accident.

Essential Questions

• What is a pattern, and how can I find patterns around me?
• How can I use repeating shapes and lines to make a pattern in my artwork?
• How does choosing what to repeat show that I am making art on purpose (with intention)?
• How can patterns make my artwork more interesting to look at?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Identify and describe patterns they see in the classroom and in images (repeating shapes, lines, and colors).
2. Create simple repeating line patterns (e.g., straight-curved-straight, zigzag-dot-zigzag).
3. Create simple repeating shape patterns (e.g., circle-square-circle-square).
4. Use patterns intentionally in a small artwork (border, background, or patterned object).
5. Explain in simple words how they used repetition of elements (line, shape, color) to create their pattern.

Standards Alignment — 1st Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Cr2.1a — Use elements of art (line, shape, color, texture) to create artwork with intention.
  • Example: Students use curved lines to show movement.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can find patterns made from repeating shapes, lines, or colors.
• I can make my own pattern by repeating lines or shapes.
• I can use patterns on purpose in my artwork (not just scribbles).
• I can tell someone how I used repetition in my picture.
• I can use patterns to make my artwork more interesting.