Unit Plan 20 (Grade 2 Art): Texture & Pattern Design

Focus: Apply texture and repeated patterns on purpose to create organized and visually interesting compositions.

Grade Level: 2

Subject Area: Art (Visual Arts • Creating)

Total Unit Duration: 1–3 weeks, 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, students explore how artists use texture (how something looks or feels) and pattern (repeating shapes, lines, or colors) to make artwork more interesting and organized. They experiment with drawing and collage marks that suggest rough, smooth, furry, or bumpy surfaces, and they repeat these marks to create patterns. Students then design a simple composition—such as a “texture creature,” patterned landscape, or decorated object—where textures and patterns are placed on purpose instead of randomly. By the end, students understand that repetition and texture can help guide the viewer’s eye and make artwork feel more complete.

Essential Questions

• How do texture and pattern make artwork more interesting to look at?
• What happens when I repeat lines, shapes, or marks in an organized way?
• How can I use texture marks to show how something might feel (rough, soft, bumpy)?
• Why is it important to place patterns and textures on purpose instead of just everywhere?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Identify examples of texture and pattern in artworks and classroom objects.
2. Experiment with different marks and materials (lines, shapes, rubbing, collage pieces) to show visual texture.
3. Create simple repeated patterns using lines, shapes, or colors in an organized way.
4. Design a composition that uses texture and pattern intentionally (e.g., different textures in different areas, repeated pattern in borders or backgrounds).
5. Explain one way texture and pattern make their artwork more organized or visually engaging.

Standards Alignment — 2nd Grade (NCAS-Aligned)

• VA:Cr2.5a — Apply elements of art and principles of design purposefully to create organized and visually engaging compositions.
  • Example: Students use contrast and emphasis to guide viewer attention.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can name and find textures and patterns in pictures and real objects.
• I can make texture marks and repeated patterns with my drawing tools.
• I can use texture and pattern on purpose in different parts of my picture.
• I can keep my patterns organized so they repeat clearly.
• I can explain how texture and pattern make my artwork more interesting.