Unit Plan 20 (Grade 4 Art): Texture & Pattern Design
Grade 4 art unit exploring intentional texture and pattern, where students design balanced compositions using repetition and surface detail to create organized visual interest.
Focus: Apply texture and pattern intentionally within compositions to create organized and balanced designs.
Grade Level: 4
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 texture (how something looks or feels) and pattern (repeating lines, shapes, or images) can be used on purpose to strengthen a composition. They study visual examples that show both real (actual) and implied textures and notice how artists repeat and arrange patterns to create balance, rhythm, and interest. Through experimentation and a small finished design, students practice placing textures and patterns thoughtfully so that their artwork feels organized rather than random.
Essential Questions
- How do texture and pattern change the way an artwork looks and feels to the viewer?
- What does it mean to use texture and pattern intentionally instead of just decorating everywhere?
- How can the placement of patterns and textured areas help create balance and organization in a composition?
- How can I combine line, shape, texture, and pattern so my artwork feels both interesting and clear?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Identify and describe examples of texture (real and implied) and pattern in sample artworks.
- Experiment with tools and marks to create a variety of textured areas and repeating patterns.
- Plan a simple composition that uses texture and pattern on purpose to create balance and visual organization.
- Apply texture and pattern thoughtfully in a small design, avoiding clutter and keeping a clear focal area.
- Reflect on how their choices of texture and pattern changed the mood, interest, and balance of their artwork.
Standards Alignment — 4th Grade (NCAS-Aligned)
- VA:Cr2.4a — Apply elements of art and principles of design intentionally to create organized and balanced compositions.
- Example: Students use symmetry and contrast to improve visual balance.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can find and name texture and pattern in artworks and in the classroom.
- I can create different textures and patterns using lines, shapes, and marks.
- I can place textures and patterns on purpose so my artwork feels organized, not random.
- I can use texture and pattern to help create balance and keep one area as the focal point.
- I can explain how my choices of texture and pattern changed the look and feel of my composition.